At least 14 die in Miami seaplane crash, officials Reuters
A seaplane packed with passengers crashed off Miami Beach and sank into the southern US city's main shipping channel on Monday, killing at least 14 people, the US Coast Guard said. The twin-engine seaplane, which flies between downtown Miami and the Bahamas, crashed just off the southern tip of Miami Beach after taking off with 16 passengers and two crew, Coast Guard spokeswoman Petty Officer Danielle DeMarino said. Other Coast Guard officials said up to 20 people were on board.
Plane Crashes Off Miami; At Least 14 Are Dead New York Times
At least 14 dead after seaplane crashes off Miami Beach Chicago Tribune
Houston Chronicle - San Francisco Chronicle - ABC News - Special Broadcasting Service - all 410 related »
Full Version: Breaking News Volume 22
Common Ground Common Sense > National & International News > Daily National and International News > Breaking News Archive
Big Oil: Mission Accomplished? John Kerry
Dear Friends,
If you ever needed a reminder of how broken Washington has become under one-party rule, we're getting it loud and clear in the closing hours of this session of Congress. Instead of sending a unified and unanimous signal to our troops on the front lines, Republicans are instead scheming to make a giveaway to the big oil companies their parting shot before Congress leaves Washington this winter. The Republicans' aim is sadly simple: mission accomplished for the big oil companies, mission unaccomplished for our troops, our environment, and America's real energy security. In the very early hours this morning, Republican Senators, in a desperate legislative maneuver, have attached an arctic drilling proposal to the defense bill. They're putting oil companies ahead of our troops. Senator McCain got it right when he called this maneuver "disgusting." If you agree, call your Senator now and help us get this special interest giveaway off the bill that is supposed to be helping our troops.
Call your Senators and tell them to stand up against this Republican abuse of power
The Military Officer's Association of America predicted this tactic last week: "We're concerned that insertion of any divisive, non-defense related issues at the last minute could further delay enactment of this crucial legislation. Both defense bills are urgently needed to support our military efforts. Congress is already three months late passing them, and needs to get off the dime." Yesterday, a group of five high-profile generals sent a letter to Senator Frist that said: "It is not helpful to attach such a controversial non-defense legislative issue to a defense appropriations bill. It only invites delay for our troops as Congress debates an important but controversial non-defense issue on a vital bill providing critical funding for our nation's security." Republican leaders know that drilling in the Arctic Refuge has nothing to do with this critical defense legislation. They know that just weeks ago, the arctic drilling proposal didn't have the votes to pass in the light of day because it's wrong for America. Now, the Republicans know where our generals stand on this matter. Will you join us in making them listen to our military?
Call your Senators and tell them to stand up against this Republican abuse of power
We have to make it clear that it's dead wrong for the Republican leadership in this Congress to break Senate rules in a last-ditch attempt to sneak through the arctic drilling proposal. Congress shouldn't keep our troops waiting in order to keep special interests happy. Ask yourself: how long will our troops have to wait while Republican Senators attach unrelated, controversial ideological adventures that don't pass the test with the American people?
Call your Senators and tell them to stand up against this Republican abuse of power
I'm doing all I can to force the Republican leadership to surrender their irresponsible arctic drilling proposal. If they don't, I intend to spend a lot of time on the Senate floor talking about this. And if people want to call it a filibuster, that's fine by me. I need your help today to lobby your Senators to take this controversial provision off the defense bill. This is no small fight. What the Republicans are doing dishonors our troops, it dishonors the Senate, it breaks the public trust - and in this particular instance, it would lead to the destruction of one of America's most treasured wildlife refuges. I won't stand for it. And next time these Republicans tell me that we have to destroy this wildlife refuge for our energy security, I'm going to tell them the truth that you and I know with every fiber of our being: we cannot drill our way to energy independence; we have to invent our way there. The best ways to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil are to conserve more, waste less, and develop more fuel-efficient cars so we use less oil and gas. I'm not going to stand for the hollow, empty, more of the same energy policy written by Dick Cheney in secret meetings that puts at risk the troops this defense bill is meant to protect.
Call your Senators and tell them to stand up against this Republican abuse of power
Tell your Senators to oppose this underhanded attempt to hijack legislation for our troops to give an early Christmas present to the oil companies. Thank you for fighting back. Your voice will make a huge difference.
Sincerely,
John Kerry
Dear Friends,
If you ever needed a reminder of how broken Washington has become under one-party rule, we're getting it loud and clear in the closing hours of this session of Congress. Instead of sending a unified and unanimous signal to our troops on the front lines, Republicans are instead scheming to make a giveaway to the big oil companies their parting shot before Congress leaves Washington this winter. The Republicans' aim is sadly simple: mission accomplished for the big oil companies, mission unaccomplished for our troops, our environment, and America's real energy security. In the very early hours this morning, Republican Senators, in a desperate legislative maneuver, have attached an arctic drilling proposal to the defense bill. They're putting oil companies ahead of our troops. Senator McCain got it right when he called this maneuver "disgusting." If you agree, call your Senator now and help us get this special interest giveaway off the bill that is supposed to be helping our troops.
Call your Senators and tell them to stand up against this Republican abuse of power
The Military Officer's Association of America predicted this tactic last week: "We're concerned that insertion of any divisive, non-defense related issues at the last minute could further delay enactment of this crucial legislation. Both defense bills are urgently needed to support our military efforts. Congress is already three months late passing them, and needs to get off the dime." Yesterday, a group of five high-profile generals sent a letter to Senator Frist that said: "It is not helpful to attach such a controversial non-defense legislative issue to a defense appropriations bill. It only invites delay for our troops as Congress debates an important but controversial non-defense issue on a vital bill providing critical funding for our nation's security." Republican leaders know that drilling in the Arctic Refuge has nothing to do with this critical defense legislation. They know that just weeks ago, the arctic drilling proposal didn't have the votes to pass in the light of day because it's wrong for America. Now, the Republicans know where our generals stand on this matter. Will you join us in making them listen to our military?
Call your Senators and tell them to stand up against this Republican abuse of power
We have to make it clear that it's dead wrong for the Republican leadership in this Congress to break Senate rules in a last-ditch attempt to sneak through the arctic drilling proposal. Congress shouldn't keep our troops waiting in order to keep special interests happy. Ask yourself: how long will our troops have to wait while Republican Senators attach unrelated, controversial ideological adventures that don't pass the test with the American people?
Call your Senators and tell them to stand up against this Republican abuse of power
I'm doing all I can to force the Republican leadership to surrender their irresponsible arctic drilling proposal. If they don't, I intend to spend a lot of time on the Senate floor talking about this. And if people want to call it a filibuster, that's fine by me. I need your help today to lobby your Senators to take this controversial provision off the defense bill. This is no small fight. What the Republicans are doing dishonors our troops, it dishonors the Senate, it breaks the public trust - and in this particular instance, it would lead to the destruction of one of America's most treasured wildlife refuges. I won't stand for it. And next time these Republicans tell me that we have to destroy this wildlife refuge for our energy security, I'm going to tell them the truth that you and I know with every fiber of our being: we cannot drill our way to energy independence; we have to invent our way there. The best ways to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil are to conserve more, waste less, and develop more fuel-efficient cars so we use less oil and gas. I'm not going to stand for the hollow, empty, more of the same energy policy written by Dick Cheney in secret meetings that puts at risk the troops this defense bill is meant to protect.
Call your Senators and tell them to stand up against this Republican abuse of power
Tell your Senators to oppose this underhanded attempt to hijack legislation for our troops to give an early Christmas present to the oil companies. Thank you for fighting back. Your voice will make a huge difference.
Sincerely,
John Kerry
Netanyahu wins Likud helm: exit poll Reuters
Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu swept to victory in a Likud party election on Monday to take the helm of the rightist faction shattered by Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's defection, an exit poll showed. Netanyahu, an ex-premier who opposed Sharon's Gaza pullout and vows to fight further withdrawals from land Palestinians want for a state, won 47 percent of the vote to 32 percent for Foreign Minister Silvan Shalom, Israel Radio projected.
Profile: Binyamin Netanyahu BBC News
Doctors: Stroke Caused No Damage to Sharon Forbes
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Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu swept to victory in a Likud party election on Monday to take the helm of the rightist faction shattered by Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's defection, an exit poll showed. Netanyahu, an ex-premier who opposed Sharon's Gaza pullout and vows to fight further withdrawals from land Palestinians want for a state, won 47 percent of the vote to 32 percent for Foreign Minister Silvan Shalom, Israel Radio projected.
Profile: Binyamin Netanyahu BBC News
Doctors: Stroke Caused No Damage to Sharon Forbes
Reuters AlertNet - Special Broadcasting Service - Japan Today - Monsters and Critics.com - all 150 related »
A seaplane's fiery plunge Miami Herald
A Chalk's seaplane burst into flames over South Beach on Monday, killing all 20 people on board -- including three infants -- and plummeting into the ocean so close to shore that lifeguards, surfers and Jet Skiers were the first on the scene. The cause of the crash remained unknown, but witnesses said the plane's rear half exploded, shearing off the left wing and sending the flight tumbling to the sea shortly after its 2:30 p.m. takeoff from Watson Island. ''All of a sudden it just burst into a big ball of fire and it went right down,'' said Larry Little, 59, who was working construction on the Apogee building in South Pointe and watched the plane somersault into the water.
'Something went drastically wrong': 19 killed in plane crash USA Today
Seaplane crashes in ocean, killing 19 St. Petersburg Times
Palm Beach Post - BBC News - New York Times - Houston Chronicle - all 986 related »
A Chalk's seaplane burst into flames over South Beach on Monday, killing all 20 people on board -- including three infants -- and plummeting into the ocean so close to shore that lifeguards, surfers and Jet Skiers were the first on the scene. The cause of the crash remained unknown, but witnesses said the plane's rear half exploded, shearing off the left wing and sending the flight tumbling to the sea shortly after its 2:30 p.m. takeoff from Watson Island. ''All of a sudden it just burst into a big ball of fire and it went right down,'' said Larry Little, 59, who was working construction on the Apogee building in South Pointe and watched the plane somersault into the water.
'Something went drastically wrong': 19 killed in plane crash USA Today
Seaplane crashes in ocean, killing 19 St. Petersburg Times
Palm Beach Post - BBC News - New York Times - Houston Chronicle - all 986 related »
Bolivian head 'stays true to roots' Scotsman
Evo Morales, the leftist claiming victory in Bolivia's presidential race, stayed true to his coca-growing roots on Monday by repeating promises to stop the US-backed eradication of coca, saying the crop that provides the raw material for cocaine is part of Bolivian culture. Initial results showed Morales with a smashing victory over seven opponents that would make him the first Indian president in the 180-year history of independent Bolivia and solidify a continental shift to the political left.
Vote signals Bolivian left turn St. Petersburg Times
Indio candidate Morales wins Bolivian presidential vote Monsters and Critics.com
Houston Chronicle - New York Times - Forbes - Bloomberg - all 1,044 related »
Evo Morales, the leftist claiming victory in Bolivia's presidential race, stayed true to his coca-growing roots on Monday by repeating promises to stop the US-backed eradication of coca, saying the crop that provides the raw material for cocaine is part of Bolivian culture. Initial results showed Morales with a smashing victory over seven opponents that would make him the first Indian president in the 180-year history of independent Bolivia and solidify a continental shift to the political left.
Vote signals Bolivian left turn St. Petersburg Times
Indio candidate Morales wins Bolivian presidential vote Monsters and Critics.com
Houston Chronicle - New York Times - Forbes - Bloomberg - all 1,044 related »
Cantwell vows Senate fight to stop oil drilling Seattle Post Intelligencer
Maria Cantwell vowed Monday to keep the Senate in session until the brink of Christmas to defeat legislation that would open the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to oil drilling. "If this language is allowed to stand, one of our nation's most pristine wildlife areas will be lost," Cantwell, a Democrat, said as she outlined plans by her party and its allies to defeat language offered by Alaska Republican Ted Stevens to open ANWR. "This is nothing more than a sweetheart deal for Alaska and the oil companies," Cantwell said. "That's why I am prepared to use every procedural option available to me as a senator to prevent this language from moving forward."
Lawmakers Prepare for Showdown Over Arctic Oil Drilling Provision New York Times
Democrats to fight Arctic oil drilling Reuters.uk
International Herald Tribune - Northwest Progressive Institute Official Blog - FOX News - Washington Post - all 881 related »
Maria Cantwell vowed Monday to keep the Senate in session until the brink of Christmas to defeat legislation that would open the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to oil drilling. "If this language is allowed to stand, one of our nation's most pristine wildlife areas will be lost," Cantwell, a Democrat, said as she outlined plans by her party and its allies to defeat language offered by Alaska Republican Ted Stevens to open ANWR. "This is nothing more than a sweetheart deal for Alaska and the oil companies," Cantwell said. "That's why I am prepared to use every procedural option available to me as a senator to prevent this language from moving forward."
Lawmakers Prepare for Showdown Over Arctic Oil Drilling Provision New York Times
Democrats to fight Arctic oil drilling Reuters.uk
International Herald Tribune - Northwest Progressive Institute Official Blog - FOX News - Washington Post - all 881 related »
Netanyahu: Likud beginning journey back to power Monsters and Critics.com
Tel Aviv - Former Israeli premier Benjamin Netanyahu vowed early Tuesday to lead his Likud party to victory in the upcoming March elections despite the harsh blow dealt to the hawkish faction by last month's defection of popular Prime Minister Ariel Sharon Israel Radio reported that with 98 per cent of the votes counted in Monday's Likud leadership contest, the hardline Netanyahu had 44.4 per cent of the vote against the 33 per cent won by relative moderate Foreign Minister Silvan Shalom. Ultra-nationalist candidate Moshe Feiglin received 12.5 per cent, and Agriculture Minister Yisrael Katz scored 8.7 per cent. 'I came here tonight to tell you that the Likud is beginning the journey back to ruling the country,' Netanyahu told a packed hall of supporters in Tel Aviv shortly after preliminary results and an exit poll indicated he would replace Sharon as party leader.
Netanyahu Wins Primary, Sharon Recovering ABC News
Kadima rebounds in opinion polls despite Sharon stroke Ha'aretz (subscription)
Times Online - International Herald Tribune - Reuters AlertNet - Asian Tribune - all 1,980 related »
Tel Aviv - Former Israeli premier Benjamin Netanyahu vowed early Tuesday to lead his Likud party to victory in the upcoming March elections despite the harsh blow dealt to the hawkish faction by last month's defection of popular Prime Minister Ariel Sharon Israel Radio reported that with 98 per cent of the votes counted in Monday's Likud leadership contest, the hardline Netanyahu had 44.4 per cent of the vote against the 33 per cent won by relative moderate Foreign Minister Silvan Shalom. Ultra-nationalist candidate Moshe Feiglin received 12.5 per cent, and Agriculture Minister Yisrael Katz scored 8.7 per cent. 'I came here tonight to tell you that the Likud is beginning the journey back to ruling the country,' Netanyahu told a packed hall of supporters in Tel Aviv shortly after preliminary results and an exit poll indicated he would replace Sharon as party leader.
Netanyahu Wins Primary, Sharon Recovering ABC News
Kadima rebounds in opinion polls despite Sharon stroke Ha'aretz (subscription)
Times Online - International Herald Tribune - Reuters AlertNet - Asian Tribune - all 1,980 related »
Bush defends eavesdropping, blasts senators on Patriot Act San Francisco Chronicle
President Bush said Monday it was a "shameful act" for someone to disclose that he has secretly allowed anti-terrorism wiretaps and e-mail intercepts without court orders and warned that planned congressional hearings into the eavesdropping would assist America's terrorist enemies. At a White House press conference, Bush also assailed senators who have held up renewal of 16 provisions of the Patriot Act due to expire on Dec. 31 over civil liberties concerns, warning that "we cannot afford to be without this law for a single moment.'' Bush's critics fired back, saying that he has erroneously claimed legal authority for sanctioning the wiretaps and blaming him and Republican congressional leaders for the impasse over the Patriot Act's reauthorization.
Bush defends domestic eavesdropping Toronto Star
For Bush, 9/11 justifies eavesdropping Newsday
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President Bush said Monday it was a "shameful act" for someone to disclose that he has secretly allowed anti-terrorism wiretaps and e-mail intercepts without court orders and warned that planned congressional hearings into the eavesdropping would assist America's terrorist enemies. At a White House press conference, Bush also assailed senators who have held up renewal of 16 provisions of the Patriot Act due to expire on Dec. 31 over civil liberties concerns, warning that "we cannot afford to be without this law for a single moment.'' Bush's critics fired back, saying that he has erroneously claimed legal authority for sanctioning the wiretaps and blaming him and Republican congressional leaders for the impasse over the Patriot Act's reauthorization.
Bush defends domestic eavesdropping Toronto Star
For Bush, 9/11 justifies eavesdropping Newsday
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US frees 'Dr. Germ' and other Iraq detainees Boston Globe
Saddam Hussein's weapons specialists, nicknamed ''Dr. Germ" and ''Mrs. Anthrax" in the Western media, are being released by US forces, an Iraqi lawyer said yesterday, and the US military confirmed several ''high-value detainees" were being freed. The State Department said Rihab Taha, who was dubbed Dr. Germ by the press and admitted to producing germ warfare agents, was released because US forces could not justify keeping her as a security threat.
24 Ex-Hussein Officials Freed From US Custody New York Times
US Frees 2 Regime Officials Held Since War's Early Days Los Angeles Times
Independent - Special Broadcasting Service - St. Petersburg Times - People's Daily Online - all 334 related »
Saddam Hussein's weapons specialists, nicknamed ''Dr. Germ" and ''Mrs. Anthrax" in the Western media, are being released by US forces, an Iraqi lawyer said yesterday, and the US military confirmed several ''high-value detainees" were being freed. The State Department said Rihab Taha, who was dubbed Dr. Germ by the press and admitted to producing germ warfare agents, was released because US forces could not justify keeping her as a security threat.
24 Ex-Hussein Officials Freed From US Custody New York Times
US Frees 2 Regime Officials Held Since War's Early Days Los Angeles Times
Independent - Special Broadcasting Service - St. Petersburg Times - People's Daily Online - all 334 related »
Air-India plane in emergency landing in Los Angeles Reuters
A passenger jet belonging to state-run carrier Air-India Ltd. made an emergency landing at Los Angeles International Airport, an airline official said on Tuesday. All 249 passengers and 18 crew were safe, said S. Venkat, general manager for publicity at Air-India. The aircraft, on its way to New Delhi from Los Angeles via Frankfurt, had a burst tire while taking off.
Jet Returns to LAX for Emergency Landing Los Angeles Times
Air India Flight Makes Emergency Landing Houston Chronicle
NDTV.com - CBS 2 - KLAS-TV - KESQ - all 106 related »
A passenger jet belonging to state-run carrier Air-India Ltd. made an emergency landing at Los Angeles International Airport, an airline official said on Tuesday. All 249 passengers and 18 crew were safe, said S. Venkat, general manager for publicity at Air-India. The aircraft, on its way to New Delhi from Los Angeles via Frankfurt, had a burst tire while taking off.
Jet Returns to LAX for Emergency Landing Los Angeles Times
Air India Flight Makes Emergency Landing Houston Chronicle
NDTV.com - CBS 2 - KLAS-TV - KESQ - all 106 related »
Imagining Israel's Future New York Sun
In the end, so it seems, it wasn't so serious. Prime Minister Ariel Sharon had a mild stroke, was rushed to the hospital, quickly recovered full consciousness and motor control, and within hours assured a worried Israel that he was all right and would soon be back on the job. And yet to think of what might have happened had it been worse is to be given a sobering reminder of the risks Mr. Sharon took, not only for himself, but for the nation, when he bolted the Likud last month to found, several months before national elections, a new party of his own called Kadima. Imagine a future like the following: December 18. Prime Minister Ariel Sharon is rushed to the hospital. After a day of medical tests, conflicting rumors, and public confusion, the doctors announce that he has suffered a moderate stroke. Although there is no immediate danger to his life, his speech and motor functions have been partially impaired.
Netanyahu Wins Primary, Sharon Recovering ABC News
Netanyahu Wins Likud Party Primary Election San Francisco Chronicle
CJAD - AKI - Forbes - Special Broadcasting Service - all 1,967 related »
In the end, so it seems, it wasn't so serious. Prime Minister Ariel Sharon had a mild stroke, was rushed to the hospital, quickly recovered full consciousness and motor control, and within hours assured a worried Israel that he was all right and would soon be back on the job. And yet to think of what might have happened had it been worse is to be given a sobering reminder of the risks Mr. Sharon took, not only for himself, but for the nation, when he bolted the Likud last month to found, several months before national elections, a new party of his own called Kadima. Imagine a future like the following: December 18. Prime Minister Ariel Sharon is rushed to the hospital. After a day of medical tests, conflicting rumors, and public confusion, the doctors announce that he has suffered a moderate stroke. Although there is no immediate danger to his life, his speech and motor functions have been partially impaired.
Netanyahu Wins Primary, Sharon Recovering ABC News
Netanyahu Wins Likud Party Primary Election San Francisco Chronicle
CJAD - AKI - Forbes - Special Broadcasting Service - all 1,967 related »
Holiday transit strike tests New Yorkers Reuters.uk
New Yorkers struggled into work on foot, by bike and in cars shared with strangers after subway and bus workers walked off the job for the first time in 25 years on Tuesday, stranding millions of people. America's largest mass transit system ground to a halt during the peak tourist and shopping season days before Christmas in a strike that city officials have warned could cost New York up to $400 million a day.
The City that Never Sleeps Takes a Hike TIME
Transit strike hits New York MSNBC
Newsday - KHON2 - Los Angeles Times - ABC News - all 1,954 related »
New Yorkers struggled into work on foot, by bike and in cars shared with strangers after subway and bus workers walked off the job for the first time in 25 years on Tuesday, stranding millions of people. America's largest mass transit system ground to a halt during the peak tourist and shopping season days before Christmas in a strike that city officials have warned could cost New York up to $400 million a day.
The City that Never Sleeps Takes a Hike TIME
Transit strike hits New York MSNBC
Newsday - KHON2 - Los Angeles Times - ABC News - all 1,954 related »
Hawkish Netanyahu to lead Likud CBC News
Benjamin Netanyahu, a staunch opponent to Israel's pullout from Gaza, defeated a moderate rival to become the new leader of the Likud party. The former Israeli prime minister captured 44 per cent of the votes, compared with 33 per cent for Foreign Minister Silvan Shalom. Two other candidates divided the remaining votes. That means Netanyahu will face former leader Ariel Sharon in the March 28 general elections. Sharon defected from Likud last month because of an internal rebellion against his Gaza pullout plan. He formed his own party, the centrist Kadima.
I need you healthy Ynetnews
Sharon leaves hospital ready to 'move forward' International Herald Tribune
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Benjamin Netanyahu, a staunch opponent to Israel's pullout from Gaza, defeated a moderate rival to become the new leader of the Likud party. The former Israeli prime minister captured 44 per cent of the votes, compared with 33 per cent for Foreign Minister Silvan Shalom. Two other candidates divided the remaining votes. That means Netanyahu will face former leader Ariel Sharon in the March 28 general elections. Sharon defected from Likud last month because of an internal rebellion against his Gaza pullout plan. He formed his own party, the centrist Kadima.
I need you healthy Ynetnews
Sharon leaves hospital ready to 'move forward' International Herald Tribune
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Germany Frees Hijacker Who Killed US Sailor New York Times
A German parole board has released a Lebanese man convicted 16 years ago of killing an American Navy diver during the 1985 hijacking of a TWA jetliner, a spokeswoman for the Frankfurt prosecutor's office said today. The man, Mohammed Ali Hamadi, who was arrested at the Frankfurt Airport in January 1987, was found guilty in a trial in 1989 of the murder of Robert Dean Stethem, a 23-year-old from Waldorf, Md., whose body was then dumped onto the tarmac. Mr. Hamadi's release, which took place Thursday, came only a couple of days before a German archaeologist, Susanne Osthoff, was freed by a group that took her hostage in Iraq three weeks ago, but German officials denied any connection between the two cases.
Germany frees jailed Hizbollah man wanted by US Reuters
Lebanese hijacker freed after 19 years of life sentence Turkish Press
Deutsche Welle - Aljazeera.net - Ha'aretz (subscription) - CNN International - all 274 related »
A German parole board has released a Lebanese man convicted 16 years ago of killing an American Navy diver during the 1985 hijacking of a TWA jetliner, a spokeswoman for the Frankfurt prosecutor's office said today. The man, Mohammed Ali Hamadi, who was arrested at the Frankfurt Airport in January 1987, was found guilty in a trial in 1989 of the murder of Robert Dean Stethem, a 23-year-old from Waldorf, Md., whose body was then dumped onto the tarmac. Mr. Hamadi's release, which took place Thursday, came only a couple of days before a German archaeologist, Susanne Osthoff, was freed by a group that took her hostage in Iraq three weeks ago, but German officials denied any connection between the two cases.
Germany frees jailed Hizbollah man wanted by US Reuters
Lebanese hijacker freed after 19 years of life sentence Turkish Press
Deutsche Welle - Aljazeera.net - Ha'aretz (subscription) - CNN International - all 274 related »
Votes prompt Cheney to shorten Asia-Mideast trip CNN
Afghan President Hamid Karzai, right, walks with US Vice President Dick Cheney in Kabul on Monday. Vice President Dick Cheney cut short his trip to earthquake-ravaged Pakistan his aides said Tuesday, to return to Washington to cast key votes in Congress. "The vice president is returning to Washington to be on hand in the Senate to fulfill his constitutional duties as president of the Senate and cast tie-breaking votes, if necessary," spokesman Steve Schmidt told The Associated Press and other reporters accompanying Cheney. The vice president's constitutional duties include presiding over the Senate, although traditionally vice presidents only cast ballots in votes that are expected to be close.
Cheney cuts short Mideast/Asia trip Australian
US vice president conveys 'deep' sorrow to earthquake-hit Pakistan Monsters and Critics.com
Reuters AlertNet - Reuters - ABC News - Washington Post - all 315 related »
Afghan President Hamid Karzai, right, walks with US Vice President Dick Cheney in Kabul on Monday. Vice President Dick Cheney cut short his trip to earthquake-ravaged Pakistan his aides said Tuesday, to return to Washington to cast key votes in Congress. "The vice president is returning to Washington to be on hand in the Senate to fulfill his constitutional duties as president of the Senate and cast tie-breaking votes, if necessary," spokesman Steve Schmidt told The Associated Press and other reporters accompanying Cheney. The vice president's constitutional duties include presiding over the Senate, although traditionally vice presidents only cast ballots in votes that are expected to be close.
Cheney cuts short Mideast/Asia trip Australian
US vice president conveys 'deep' sorrow to earthquake-hit Pakistan Monsters and Critics.com
Reuters AlertNet - Reuters - ABC News - Washington Post - all 315 related »
Man Convicted in Indonesian Activist Death Forbes
A court Tuesday convicted a pilot of poisoning Indonesia's top human rights activist and sentenced him to 14 years in prison. But the victim's widow alleged there was a larger conspiracy and demanded an investigation into the pilot's links with a senior intelligence official. The activist, Munir Thalib, gained prominence during former dictator Suharto's rule, when he openly criticized Indonesia's government and brutality by security forces.
Profile: Munir Thalib BBC News
Pilot sentenced for killing activist International Herald Tribune
Special Broadcasting Service - Monsters and Critics.com - Times Online - Radio Netherlands - all 131 related »
A court Tuesday convicted a pilot of poisoning Indonesia's top human rights activist and sentenced him to 14 years in prison. But the victim's widow alleged there was a larger conspiracy and demanded an investigation into the pilot's links with a senior intelligence official. The activist, Munir Thalib, gained prominence during former dictator Suharto's rule, when he openly criticized Indonesia's government and brutality by security forces.
Profile: Munir Thalib BBC News
Pilot sentenced for killing activist International Herald Tribune
Special Broadcasting Service - Monsters and Critics.com - Times Online - Radio Netherlands - all 131 related »
QUOTE(karen @ Dec 20 2005, 12:46 PM)
Thanks Karen!
Srebrenica Suspect Regrets Videotape Guardian Unlimited
The main suspect in a landmark trial of five Serb militiamen charged with the videotaped execution of six Bosnian Muslims said Tuesday he would have killed the soldier who filmed it if he knew it would become public. The suspects, whose trial opened Tuesday in Belgrade, were charged after the June airing of the gruesome 1995 video showing six civilians being taken from a truck with their hands tied, lined up on a hillside near Srebrenica and sprayed with machine-gun fire. The five face up to 40 years in jail if convicted. Serbia has abolished the death penalty.
Serbs tried over Srebrenica video BBC News
Five Serbs on trial in the 1995 killing of Bosnians CBC New Brunswick
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The main suspect in a landmark trial of five Serb militiamen charged with the videotaped execution of six Bosnian Muslims said Tuesday he would have killed the soldier who filmed it if he knew it would become public. The suspects, whose trial opened Tuesday in Belgrade, were charged after the June airing of the gruesome 1995 video showing six civilians being taken from a truck with their hands tied, lined up on a hillside near Srebrenica and sprayed with machine-gun fire. The five face up to 40 years in jail if convicted. Serbia has abolished the death penalty.
Serbs tried over Srebrenica video BBC News
Five Serbs on trial in the 1995 killing of Bosnians CBC New Brunswick
Aljazeera.com - AKI - Xinhua - Euronews.net - all 109 related »
Trains collide in Italy, injuring 45-50 Malaysia Star
Two trains collided at a station south of Rome on Tuesday, injuring between 45 and 50 people, 12 of them seriously, the fire brigade and police said. A fireman said earlier in the day that one person had been killed but later could not confirm it. State rail operator Trenitalia said in a statement that a regional train from Rome had hit another that had halted at the station of Roccasecca, about 80 km south of the capital. It said the reasons for the accident, which happened at around 3:20 p.m. (1420 GMT), were not immediately clear.
Several hurt in Italy train crash BBC News
Trains collide in Italy, injuring at least 30 people CBC News
Reuters.uk - Houston Chronicle - Channel 4 News - Agenzia Giornalistica Italia - all 147 related »
Two trains collided at a station south of Rome on Tuesday, injuring between 45 and 50 people, 12 of them seriously, the fire brigade and police said. A fireman said earlier in the day that one person had been killed but later could not confirm it. State rail operator Trenitalia said in a statement that a regional train from Rome had hit another that had halted at the station of Roccasecca, about 80 km south of the capital. It said the reasons for the accident, which happened at around 3:20 p.m. (1420 GMT), were not immediately clear.
Several hurt in Italy train crash BBC News
Trains collide in Italy, injuring at least 30 people CBC News
Reuters.uk - Houston Chronicle - Channel 4 News - Agenzia Giornalistica Italia - all 147 related »
Iranians Shrug Off Ban on Western Music Forbes
A young woman driving through the Iranian capital blared the Eagles' "Hotel California" from her car speakers - an act that would have gotten her pulled over by police, and possibly arrested, 20 years ago during the frenzy of the Islamic Revolution. To Pari Mahmoudi, who grew up in an era when many of the 1979 revolution's restrictions have been dropped or ignored, a new ban on Western music ordered this week by Iran's hard-line president seems too ludicrous to be real. "Don't take this man seriously," the 25-year-old scoffed Tuesday, referring to President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. But some fear the ban that Ahmadinejad enacted Monday is a sign of more to come. The order affects only state-run television and radio, which occasionally play Western music - without lyrics - in the background of newscasts or other programs.
Iran declares ban on western music Guardian Unlimited
Iran to pull plug on West's music Houston Chronicle
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A young woman driving through the Iranian capital blared the Eagles' "Hotel California" from her car speakers - an act that would have gotten her pulled over by police, and possibly arrested, 20 years ago during the frenzy of the Islamic Revolution. To Pari Mahmoudi, who grew up in an era when many of the 1979 revolution's restrictions have been dropped or ignored, a new ban on Western music ordered this week by Iran's hard-line president seems too ludicrous to be real. "Don't take this man seriously," the 25-year-old scoffed Tuesday, referring to President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. But some fear the ban that Ahmadinejad enacted Monday is a sign of more to come. The order affects only state-run television and radio, which occasionally play Western music - without lyrics - in the background of newscasts or other programs.
Iran declares ban on western music Guardian Unlimited
Iran to pull plug on West's music Houston Chronicle
Los Angeles Times - RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty - Indianapolis Star - Melbourne Herald Sun - all 434 related »
Cheney Cuts Trip For Budget Vote CBS News
Vice President Dick Cheney decided Tuesday to cut short a tour of the Middle East to return to the United States to take part in critical session-ending business in the Senate, an aide said. "The vice president is returning to Washington to be on hand in the Senate to fulfill his constitutional duties as president of the Senate and cast tie-breaking votes, if necessary," spokesman Steve Schmidt told reporters accompanying Cheney on his overseas trip.
Dick Cheney due today Daily Times
Cheney to Visit Quake Victims in Pakistan Houston Chronicle
Reuters - Xinhua - PakTribune.com - Reuters AlertNet - all 190 related »
Vice President Dick Cheney decided Tuesday to cut short a tour of the Middle East to return to the United States to take part in critical session-ending business in the Senate, an aide said. "The vice president is returning to Washington to be on hand in the Senate to fulfill his constitutional duties as president of the Senate and cast tie-breaking votes, if necessary," spokesman Steve Schmidt told reporters accompanying Cheney on his overseas trip.
Dick Cheney due today Daily Times
Cheney to Visit Quake Victims in Pakistan Houston Chronicle
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Religious groups leading as Iraqis count ballots International Herald Tribune
BAGHDAD Preliminary results announced by Iraqi electoral officials with more than half the ballots counted indicate a commanding lead for religious groups, particularly the main Shiite coalition. The secular coalition, led by Ayad Allawi, the former prime minister, won only meager support in crucial provinces where it had expected to do well, including Baghdad, preliminary results showed Monday.
Religious Groups Take Early Lead in Iraqi Ballots New York Times
The Sunnis, the Insurgents, and the Elections Washington Institute for Near East Policy
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BAGHDAD Preliminary results announced by Iraqi electoral officials with more than half the ballots counted indicate a commanding lead for religious groups, particularly the main Shiite coalition. The secular coalition, led by Ayad Allawi, the former prime minister, won only meager support in crucial provinces where it had expected to do well, including Baghdad, preliminary results showed Monday.
Religious Groups Take Early Lead in Iraqi Ballots New York Times
The Sunnis, the Insurgents, and the Elections Washington Institute for Near East Policy
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Indonesian pilot jailed over murder of activist Reuters.uk
An Indonesian court jailed an off-duty pilot for 14 years on Tuesday over the murder of the country's top human rights activist during a flight on the national carrier Garuda last year. Chief judge Cicut Sutiarsa told the court that Pollycarpus Budihari Priyanto put arsenic in noodles served to Munir Thalib because he opposed the democracy hero's criticism of the military and the national intelligence agency. A president-appointed team disbanded in June had recommended further investigation of the Munir murder, saying it had found government intelligence agency officials were implicated, a charge agency leaders have denied.
Pilot sentenced to 14 years for Indonesian activist's murder Monsters and Critics.com
Indonesian pilot convicted of murdering right activist Xinhua
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An Indonesian court jailed an off-duty pilot for 14 years on Tuesday over the murder of the country's top human rights activist during a flight on the national carrier Garuda last year. Chief judge Cicut Sutiarsa told the court that Pollycarpus Budihari Priyanto put arsenic in noodles served to Munir Thalib because he opposed the democracy hero's criticism of the military and the national intelligence agency. A president-appointed team disbanded in June had recommended further investigation of the Munir murder, saying it had found government intelligence agency officials were implicated, a charge agency leaders have denied.
Pilot sentenced to 14 years for Indonesian activist's murder Monsters and Critics.com
Indonesian pilot convicted of murdering right activist Xinhua
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Global Trend: More Science, More Fraud New York Times
The South Korean scandal that shook the world of science last week is just one sign of a global explosion in research that is outstripping the mechanisms meant to guard against error and fraud. Experts say the problem is only getting worse, as research projects, and the journals that publish the findings, soar. Science is often said to bar dishonesty and bad research with a triple safety net. The first is peer review, in which experts advise governments about what research to finance. The second is the referee system, which has journals ask reviewers to judge if manuscripts merit publication. The last is replication, whereby independent scientists see if the work holds up.
Korean scandal will have global fallout Nature.com (subscription)
Photos cast new doubt on cloning Boston Globe
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The South Korean scandal that shook the world of science last week is just one sign of a global explosion in research that is outstripping the mechanisms meant to guard against error and fraud. Experts say the problem is only getting worse, as research projects, and the journals that publish the findings, soar. Science is often said to bar dishonesty and bad research with a triple safety net. The first is peer review, in which experts advise governments about what research to finance. The second is the referee system, which has journals ask reviewers to judge if manuscripts merit publication. The last is replication, whereby independent scientists see if the work holds up.
Korean scandal will have global fallout Nature.com (subscription)
Photos cast new doubt on cloning Boston Globe
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Arrest made in July London transit bomb attempt CTV.ca
Anti-terrorist police in Britain have arrested a man in connection with the attempted bombings of London's transit system in July. Police say the 23-year-old man was arrested at Gatwick Airport as he got off a flight from Ethiopia. The individual, who police say had been out of the country since June, is suspected of the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.
Britain Arrests 6th Man in London Bombings That Failed New York Times
UK man held over failed bomb bid Mail & Guardian Online
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Anti-terrorist police in Britain have arrested a man in connection with the attempted bombings of London's transit system in July. Police say the 23-year-old man was arrested at Gatwick Airport as he got off a flight from Ethiopia. The individual, who police say had been out of the country since June, is suspected of the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.
Britain Arrests 6th Man in London Bombings That Failed New York Times
UK man held over failed bomb bid Mail & Guardian Online
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Gays and lesbians in adoption rights plea Ireland Online
Gay and lesbians want the right to adopt children under proposed new civil partnerships, it emerged today. Minister for Justice Michael McDowell has set up a working group to examine the issue of civil partnerships for Irish couples, after the first gay wedding in Britain was held at Belfast City Hall yesterday. The Gay, Lesbian Equality Network (GLEN) said its members wanted a civil marriage with the same rights and responsibilities as same sex couples.
Couples in partnership ceremonies BBC News
Britain's same-sex couples tie the knot The Age
Belfast Telegraph - Times Online - Financial Times - Xinhua - all 340 related »
Gay and lesbians want the right to adopt children under proposed new civil partnerships, it emerged today. Minister for Justice Michael McDowell has set up a working group to examine the issue of civil partnerships for Irish couples, after the first gay wedding in Britain was held at Belfast City Hall yesterday. The Gay, Lesbian Equality Network (GLEN) said its members wanted a civil marriage with the same rights and responsibilities as same sex couples.
Couples in partnership ceremonies BBC News
Britain's same-sex couples tie the knot The Age
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"Yes" takes early lead in Congo referendum-UN radio Reuters AlertNet
The "Yes" vote in Democratic Republic of Congo's referendum on a post-war constitution took a strong early lead on Tuesday after a poll seen as paving the way for elections next year, officials said. Sunday's vote was the first independent election to be held in the vast central African country for over 40 years, a period during which it has suffered dictatorship, wars and chaos. "From votes counted across the country, the 'Yes' has 78.47 percent and the 'No' has 21.03 percent," Apollinaire Malu Malu, president of the Independent Electoral Commission, told reporters in Kinshasa.
Slow count delays DR Congo result BBC News
High Turnout in Congo Referendum Inter Press Service (subscription)
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The "Yes" vote in Democratic Republic of Congo's referendum on a post-war constitution took a strong early lead on Tuesday after a poll seen as paving the way for elections next year, officials said. Sunday's vote was the first independent election to be held in the vast central African country for over 40 years, a period during which it has suffered dictatorship, wars and chaos. "From votes counted across the country, the 'Yes' has 78.47 percent and the 'No' has 21.03 percent," Apollinaire Malu Malu, president of the Independent Electoral Commission, told reporters in Kinshasa.
Slow count delays DR Congo result BBC News
High Turnout in Congo Referendum Inter Press Service (subscription)
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Afghan Lawmakers Falter in First Session Forbes
The first full session of Afghanistan's new parliament almost broke down Tuesday after a lawmaker demanded that authorities bring to justice all warlords, some of whom are delegates. Underscoring threats to the fledgling democracy, a purported statement forwarded to The Associated Press from fugitive Taliban leader Mullah Omar called the parliament "fake," and a suicide bombing wounded three Italian peacekeepers and three civilians.
Afghanistan Convenes Newly Elected Parliament Los Angeles Times
Afghan parliament begins tough job CNN
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The first full session of Afghanistan's new parliament almost broke down Tuesday after a lawmaker demanded that authorities bring to justice all warlords, some of whom are delegates. Underscoring threats to the fledgling democracy, a purported statement forwarded to The Associated Press from fugitive Taliban leader Mullah Omar called the parliament "fake," and a suicide bombing wounded three Italian peacekeepers and three civilians.
Afghanistan Convenes Newly Elected Parliament Los Angeles Times
Afghan parliament begins tough job CNN
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Transit walkout paralyzes New York Boston Globe
Thousands of New Yorkers flowed across the Brooklyn Bridge in cold weather yesterday, while hundreds of others commuted into Manhattan on bicycles and roller skates, or waited hours for commuter trains to take them to work after workers struck the city's subways and buses. For the first time in a quarter of a century, transit workers went on strike, shutting down the nation's largest mass transportation system and forcing some 7 million commuters and passengers who ride buses and the subway each day to fend for themselves.
New York transport grinds to a halt The Age
Mediator Meets With NYC Transit Union in Attempt to End Strike Bloomberg
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Thousands of New Yorkers flowed across the Brooklyn Bridge in cold weather yesterday, while hundreds of others commuted into Manhattan on bicycles and roller skates, or waited hours for commuter trains to take them to work after workers struck the city's subways and buses. For the first time in a quarter of a century, transit workers went on strike, shutting down the nation's largest mass transportation system and forcing some 7 million commuters and passengers who ride buses and the subway each day to fend for themselves.
New York transport grinds to a halt The Age
Mediator Meets With NYC Transit Union in Attempt to End Strike Bloomberg
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Palestinian gunmen kidnap foreign teachers MSNBC
GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip - Palestinian gunmen abducted a Dutch school principal and his Australian deputy Wednesday, as they drove to work at a private American school north of Gaza City, witnesses and security officials said. About one mile from the school, armed men stopped the foreigners' blue Honda Civic. The kidnappers forced the two men out of the Honda, bundled them into another vehicle and drove off, witnesses said.
Gaza gunmen kidnap foreign teachers: witnesses Reuters
Australian kidnapped in Gaza NEWS.com.au
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GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip - Palestinian gunmen abducted a Dutch school principal and his Australian deputy Wednesday, as they drove to work at a private American school north of Gaza City, witnesses and security officials said. About one mile from the school, armed men stopped the foreigners' blue Honda Civic. The kidnappers forced the two men out of the Honda, bundled them into another vehicle and drove off, witnesses said.
Gaza gunmen kidnap foreign teachers: witnesses Reuters
Australian kidnapped in Gaza NEWS.com.au
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Miami seaplane lost wing before crash - NTSB Reuters
A twin-engine seaplane lost one of its wings before it crashed off Miami Beach into the city's main shipping channel and killed at least 19 people on board, a US federal safety official said on Tuesday. A scion of the storied Bacardi drinks family was among victims of the crash. Mark Rosenker, acting chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board, told a news conference the breaking apart of the aircraft could be seen in video footage of the Grumman G-73T Turbine Mallard, filmed in its final moments on Monday above water. "What I've seen is a separation of a wing from the aircraft and, as a result, the aircraft crashing. I can't tell you why," Rosenker said.
Ill-fated Miami seaplane lost wing TVNZ
Wing break off crashed US plane Financial Express
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A twin-engine seaplane lost one of its wings before it crashed off Miami Beach into the city's main shipping channel and killed at least 19 people on board, a US federal safety official said on Tuesday. A scion of the storied Bacardi drinks family was among victims of the crash. Mark Rosenker, acting chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board, told a news conference the breaking apart of the aircraft could be seen in video footage of the Grumman G-73T Turbine Mallard, filmed in its final moments on Monday above water. "What I've seen is a separation of a wing from the aircraft and, as a result, the aircraft crashing. I can't tell you why," Rosenker said.
Ill-fated Miami seaplane lost wing TVNZ
Wing break off crashed US plane Financial Express
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Time Warner Board OKs AOL Deal With Google Los Angeles Times
Time Warner Inc. approved a deal Tuesday with Google Inc. that gives the Web-search giant a 5% stake in America Online for $1 billion and broadens the advertising ties between the Internet companies.
Google, America Online form strategic alliance Xinhua
AOL and Google Make Terms Public ClickZ News
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Time Warner Inc. approved a deal Tuesday with Google Inc. that gives the Web-search giant a 5% stake in America Online for $1 billion and broadens the advertising ties between the Internet companies.
Google, America Online form strategic alliance Xinhua
AOL and Google Make Terms Public ClickZ News
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Court rejects science alternative The News Journal
A federal judge in Pennsylvania decided Tuesday that "intelligent design" is a form of creationism, and mentioning it as an alternative to evolution in the Dover Area School District is unconstitutional because it violates the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. The ruling by U.S. Middle District Court Judge John E. Jones III dealt a severe blow to proponents of intelligent design, who want it taught as an alternative to Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. Despite the strongly worded decision, it applies only to Dover, and is unlikely to end an ongoing national debate about religion and science in public schools. In fact, the decision may inspire proponents to pursue more expanded battles, said Mark Ryland, a vice president at the Discovery Institute, which supports research and academic advocacy of intelligent design.
Judge bans 'design' teaching Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
Idea born of some scientists' gnawing doubts about Darwin Indianapolis Star
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A federal judge in Pennsylvania decided Tuesday that "intelligent design" is a form of creationism, and mentioning it as an alternative to evolution in the Dover Area School District is unconstitutional because it violates the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. The ruling by U.S. Middle District Court Judge John E. Jones III dealt a severe blow to proponents of intelligent design, who want it taught as an alternative to Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. Despite the strongly worded decision, it applies only to Dover, and is unlikely to end an ongoing national debate about religion and science in public schools. In fact, the decision may inspire proponents to pursue more expanded battles, said Mark Ryland, a vice president at the Discovery Institute, which supports research and academic advocacy of intelligent design.
Judge bans 'design' teaching Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
Idea born of some scientists' gnawing doubts about Darwin Indianapolis Star
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US Senate ok's spending-cut bill; Cheney breaks tie Reuters
The US Senate on Wednesday narrowly passed a bill to trim nearly $40 billion from federal spending over five years, including cuts to social welfare programs such as health care for the elderly and poor. Vice President Dick Cheney, in his role as president of the Senate, broke a 50-50 tie when he voted in favor of the spending cuts. The House of Representatives approved the measure on Monday. But during debate in the Senate, Democrats forced a minor change to the bill, requiring the House to act again, probably on Thursday. Cheney rarely takes the chair of the Senate to help out the Republican majority, which holds 55 of the 100 seats. The last time he broke a tie was in May 2003. Republicans in the U.S. Congress have been trying to craft a spending-cut bill for a year to show they are serious about slowing the growth in federal spending that has resulted in huge budget deficits. But Democrats have pointed out that any spending cuts would be more than offset by pending Republican tax cuts.
Cheney Breaks Senate Tie on Spending Cuts ABC News
Cheney Breaks Senate Tie on Spending Cuts San Francisco Chronicle
Washington Post - Fort Wayne Journal Gazette - Civilrights.org - CNN - all 337 related »
The US Senate on Wednesday narrowly passed a bill to trim nearly $40 billion from federal spending over five years, including cuts to social welfare programs such as health care for the elderly and poor. Vice President Dick Cheney, in his role as president of the Senate, broke a 50-50 tie when he voted in favor of the spending cuts. The House of Representatives approved the measure on Monday. But during debate in the Senate, Democrats forced a minor change to the bill, requiring the House to act again, probably on Thursday. Cheney rarely takes the chair of the Senate to help out the Republican majority, which holds 55 of the 100 seats. The last time he broke a tie was in May 2003. Republicans in the U.S. Congress have been trying to craft a spending-cut bill for a year to show they are serious about slowing the growth in federal spending that has resulted in huge budget deficits. But Democrats have pointed out that any spending cuts would be more than offset by pending Republican tax cuts.
Cheney Breaks Senate Tie on Spending Cuts ABC News
Cheney Breaks Senate Tie on Spending Cuts San Francisco Chronicle
Washington Post - Fort Wayne Journal Gazette - Civilrights.org - CNN - all 337 related »
New Yorkers Contend With 2nd Day of Transit Strike New York Times
New Yorkers made the long, cold commute to work on the second day of the transit strike this morning without subways or buses, as negotiations between the Metropolitan Transportation Authority and the transit union remained at an impasse. City lawyers appeared in court this morning seeking an injunction, which would allow the city to impose fines on Transport Workers Union, Local 100, as well as on individual striking workers of as much as $25,000. It was not immediately clear when a judge would rule on the injunction request.
NYC Enters Second Day of Transit Strike ABC News
Strike halts transit system in New York International Herald Tribune
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New Yorkers made the long, cold commute to work on the second day of the transit strike this morning without subways or buses, as negotiations between the Metropolitan Transportation Authority and the transit union remained at an impasse. City lawyers appeared in court this morning seeking an injunction, which would allow the city to impose fines on Transport Workers Union, Local 100, as well as on individual striking workers of as much as $25,000. It was not immediately clear when a judge would rule on the injunction request.
NYC Enters Second Day of Transit Strike ABC News
Strike halts transit system in New York International Herald Tribune
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Saddam Hussein Tells Court He Was Beaten, Tortured by Americans Bloomberg
Saddam Hussein today told the Baghdad court trying him for the murder of 148 villagers that he was beaten and tortured by US soldiers guarding him. "Yes, I've been beaten on every place of my body and the signs are all over my body,'' Hussein said, when asked by a prosecuting lawyer if he had been hurt in prison. "I have been hit by the Americans and tortured,'' Hussein said in a broadcast being aired by international networks with a 20- to 30-minute delay. "In July, I saw that all the jail rooms were air- conditioned when some places in Baghdad lacked electricity,'' the unidentified prosecution lawyer told Hussein during the exchange. "I asked for a television for everybody and for them to get newspapers, and now you are saying you were beaten?'' he said, adding that he would order an inquiry.
'Words cannot express the suffering we faced' Times Online
Saddam trial resumes in Baghdad CBC New Brunswick
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Saddam Hussein today told the Baghdad court trying him for the murder of 148 villagers that he was beaten and tortured by US soldiers guarding him. "Yes, I've been beaten on every place of my body and the signs are all over my body,'' Hussein said, when asked by a prosecuting lawyer if he had been hurt in prison. "I have been hit by the Americans and tortured,'' Hussein said in a broadcast being aired by international networks with a 20- to 30-minute delay. "In July, I saw that all the jail rooms were air- conditioned when some places in Baghdad lacked electricity,'' the unidentified prosecution lawyer told Hussein during the exchange. "I asked for a television for everybody and for them to get newspapers, and now you are saying you were beaten?'' he said, adding that he would order an inquiry.
'Words cannot express the suffering we faced' Times Online
Saddam trial resumes in Baghdad CBC New Brunswick
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Two Abducted Educators Released in Gaza ABC News
Brian Ambrosio, left, the Australian deputy principal of the American International School in Beit Lahia, in northern Gaza is seen after his release outside the Gaza City office of Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2005. Palestinian gunmen briefly abducted Hendrik Taatgen, the Dutch principal of the American International School and his Australian deputy Ambrosio as they drove to work at the School near Gaza City. The man on the right is unidentified.
Dutchman, Australian freed in Gaza Expatica
Australian freed in Gaza NEWS.com.au
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Brian Ambrosio, left, the Australian deputy principal of the American International School in Beit Lahia, in northern Gaza is seen after his release outside the Gaza City office of Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2005. Palestinian gunmen briefly abducted Hendrik Taatgen, the Dutch principal of the American International School and his Australian deputy Ambrosio as they drove to work at the School near Gaza City. The man on the right is unidentified.
Dutchman, Australian freed in Gaza Expatica
Australian freed in Gaza NEWS.com.au
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Judge: Jail Time "Distinct Possibility" For Union Leaders NY1
The city and state stepped up their efforts to put a stop to the city's transit strike Wednesday, asking for a temporary restraining order against the union and convincing the judge to order transit union leaders to appear in court on charges of criminal contempt, with jail time a "distinct possibility," according to the judge. The city is also now trying to get a temporary restraining order to force workers back on the job. If the order is granted, the city could then ask for $25,000 in damages per transit worker for every day they are on strike. Transit workers are already facing a penalty of two days' pay for every day they're off the job in the illegal strike. The judge will rule on the restraining order Thursday.
New Yorkers Contend With 2nd Day of Transit Strike New York Times
Union heads could face jail over NY transit strike Reuters.uk
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The city and state stepped up their efforts to put a stop to the city's transit strike Wednesday, asking for a temporary restraining order against the union and convincing the judge to order transit union leaders to appear in court on charges of criminal contempt, with jail time a "distinct possibility," according to the judge. The city is also now trying to get a temporary restraining order to force workers back on the job. If the order is granted, the city could then ask for $25,000 in damages per transit worker for every day they are on strike. Transit workers are already facing a penalty of two days' pay for every day they're off the job in the illegal strike. The judge will rule on the restraining order Thursday.
New Yorkers Contend With 2nd Day of Transit Strike New York Times
Union heads could face jail over NY transit strike Reuters.uk
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US Senate blocks drilling in Alaskan wildlife refuge CBC News
A narrow majority of US senators voted Wednesday to block a measure that would have allowed oil drilling in an Alaska wildlife refuge. The administration of US President George W. Bush had manoeuvered to open the refuge to drilling by including the motion in a wartime defence spending bill. But Democratic senators, backed by some Republicans, threatened to filibuster the defence bill over the drilling issue. In a Senate vote on Wednesday , the Republicans fell four votes short of the 60 votes they needed to avoid the filibuster.
Senate to Vote on Defense, Arctic Drilling Washington Post
Senate faces key Alaska oil vote BBC News
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A narrow majority of US senators voted Wednesday to block a measure that would have allowed oil drilling in an Alaska wildlife refuge. The administration of US President George W. Bush had manoeuvered to open the refuge to drilling by including the motion in a wartime defence spending bill. But Democratic senators, backed by some Republicans, threatened to filibuster the defence bill over the drilling issue. In a Senate vote on Wednesday , the Republicans fell four votes short of the 60 votes they needed to avoid the filibuster.
Senate to Vote on Defense, Arctic Drilling Washington Post
Senate faces key Alaska oil vote BBC News
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NTSB Asks Why Cracks in Plane Unnoticed Guardian Unlimited
A 1940s-era seaplane that lost a wing during takeoff and crashed within sight of the beach, killing all 20 people aboard, had cracks in its airframe that went unnoticed by the airline, federal investigators said Wednesday. After the discovery was disclosed, Chalk's Ocean Airways voluntarily grounded its fleet for inspection. The cracks were found in the main support beam of a wing that fell off the seaplane shortly after it took off for the Bahamas on Monday. As salvage crews and divers worked to haul the wreckage from a channel just off Miami Beach, investigators focused on how the cracks escaped notice by maintenance crews.
Seaplane that crashed had cracked wing support Seattle Times
NTSB: Crash came after wing fell off USA Today
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A 1940s-era seaplane that lost a wing during takeoff and crashed within sight of the beach, killing all 20 people aboard, had cracks in its airframe that went unnoticed by the airline, federal investigators said Wednesday. After the discovery was disclosed, Chalk's Ocean Airways voluntarily grounded its fleet for inspection. The cracks were found in the main support beam of a wing that fell off the seaplane shortly after it took off for the Bahamas on Monday. As salvage crews and divers worked to haul the wreckage from a channel just off Miami Beach, investigators focused on how the cracks escaped notice by maintenance crews.
Seaplane that crashed had cracked wing support Seattle Times
NTSB: Crash came after wing fell off USA Today
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US Judge Resigns From Special Security Court Voice of America
The Bush administration found itself on the defensive again Wednesday over the issue of domestic spying as part of the war on terrorism. A federal judge resigned from a special security court, apparently to protest President Bush's decision to authorize surveillance of Americans suspected of ties to terrorists. The Washington Post reported that the resignation of federal Judge James Robertson apparently stemmed from concerns over the legality of the president's domestic spying program. Judge Robertson was one of 11 members of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court (FISA), a special court set up to hear government requests to monitor telephone and e-mail communications of American citizens and others inside the United States.
Judge Protesting Bush's 'Phone-tapping' Program Resigns Zaman Online
Paper: Judge Resigns Over Bush Spy Program Forbes
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The Bush administration found itself on the defensive again Wednesday over the issue of domestic spying as part of the war on terrorism. A federal judge resigned from a special security court, apparently to protest President Bush's decision to authorize surveillance of Americans suspected of ties to terrorists. The Washington Post reported that the resignation of federal Judge James Robertson apparently stemmed from concerns over the legality of the president's domestic spying program. Judge Robertson was one of 11 members of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court (FISA), a special court set up to hear government requests to monitor telephone and e-mail communications of American citizens and others inside the United States.
Judge Protesting Bush's 'Phone-tapping' Program Resigns Zaman Online
Paper: Judge Resigns Over Bush Spy Program Forbes
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Iran, EU agree to hold more nuclear talks Aljazeera.com
Iran and the European Union agreed today in Vienna to meet again next month to set terms for their nuclear talks, BBC reported. "We agreed to continue our talks in January," Iranian Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) Deputy for International Affairs Javad Vaidi said. "Regarding the location, we have agreed on Vienna," he added. French foreign ministry political director Stanislas de Laboulaye told AFP that the Iranian and the EU "positions are not the same. We repeated our positions and the Iranians repeated theirs."
Iran-EU talks end, further meeting in Jan -Iran Malaysia Star
Iran and EU resume nuclear talks Guardian Unlimited
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Iran and the European Union agreed today in Vienna to meet again next month to set terms for their nuclear talks, BBC reported. "We agreed to continue our talks in January," Iranian Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) Deputy for International Affairs Javad Vaidi said. "Regarding the location, we have agreed on Vienna," he added. French foreign ministry political director Stanislas de Laboulaye told AFP that the Iranian and the EU "positions are not the same. We repeated our positions and the Iranians repeated theirs."
Iran-EU talks end, further meeting in Jan -Iran Malaysia Star
Iran and EU resume nuclear talks Guardian Unlimited
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Gunmen nab Victorian teacher Melbourne Herald Sun
PALESTINIAN gunmen abducted a Victorian deputy headmaster and his Dutch principal yesterday as they drove to a private US school in the Gaza Strip. Brian Ambrosio, a teacher from Wangaratta, was kidnapped with the school's headmaster, Hendrik Taatgen. Witnesses said an armed gang stopped the pair's Honda car as they headed to work. The men were pulled out and bundled into another vehicle. The Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) militant group said it was behind the kidnapping.
Teacher kidnapped Daily Telegraph
MIDDLE EAST: ABDUCTORS RELEASE FOREIGN TEACHERS AKI
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PALESTINIAN gunmen abducted a Victorian deputy headmaster and his Dutch principal yesterday as they drove to a private US school in the Gaza Strip. Brian Ambrosio, a teacher from Wangaratta, was kidnapped with the school's headmaster, Hendrik Taatgen. Witnesses said an armed gang stopped the pair's Honda car as they headed to work. The men were pulled out and bundled into another vehicle. The Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) militant group said it was behind the kidnapping.
Teacher kidnapped Daily Telegraph
MIDDLE EAST: ABDUCTORS RELEASE FOREIGN TEACHERS AKI
Reuters - Zaman Online - All Headline News - Times of Malta - all 319 related »
Oil prices rise after report shows decline in distillate stocks CBC News
Crude-oil prices rose Wednesday after the US government's weekly petroleum report showed a decline in domestic inventories of distillate fuel, which include heating oil and diesel. But the report also showed a surprising build in crude oil supplies and that could offset any gains. Crude prices were also buoyed slightly by news that unknown assailants had blown up a Royal Dutch Shell pipeline in Nigeria on Tuesday, killing at least eight people and knocking 170,000 barrels of crude offline.
Oil: Prices firms as heating oil stocks slip New Zealand Herald
Shell Nigeria pipeline still blazing Reuters
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Crude-oil prices rose Wednesday after the US government's weekly petroleum report showed a decline in domestic inventories of distillate fuel, which include heating oil and diesel. But the report also showed a surprising build in crude oil supplies and that could offset any gains. Crude prices were also buoyed slightly by news that unknown assailants had blown up a Royal Dutch Shell pipeline in Nigeria on Tuesday, killing at least eight people and knocking 170,000 barrels of crude offline.
Oil: Prices firms as heating oil stocks slip New Zealand Herald
Shell Nigeria pipeline still blazing Reuters
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Senate Blocks Alaska Refuge Drilling ABC News
Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., left, looks on as Sen. Joseph Lieberman, D-Conn., speaks during a Capitol Hill news conference, Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2005 after the Senate voted against closure on the Defense Appropriations Conference Report.
Stevens criticized as vote nears Fairbanks Daily News-Miner
Big oil's arctic raid Boston Globe
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Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., left, looks on as Sen. Joseph Lieberman, D-Conn., speaks during a Capitol Hill news conference, Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2005 after the Senate voted against closure on the Defense Appropriations Conference Report.
Stevens criticized as vote nears Fairbanks Daily News-Miner
Big oil's arctic raid Boston Globe
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Standing Room Only at Funeral for Crips Co-Founder Washington Post
Stanley Tookie Williams's mourners began arriving hours before his noon funeral, hoping to secure seats inside the church. By 10 am, police had blocked the streets surrounding the Bethel A.M.E. church, citing gridlock. By 11, hundreds of mourners formed two snaking lines -- one for men, one for women -- outside the church, and the 1,500-seat sanctuary was standing room only. Police began lining up in anti-riot mode across the street, watching Crips gang members arriving by the dozens. This was a funeral perhaps unlike any this humbled patch of South Los Angeles has seen. A few thousand people made their way through the narrow streets to pay their respects to Williams, who was executed at California's San Quentin State Prison on Dec. 13, 24 years after he was convicted of four murders that he swore he did not commit.
Crowd Gathers in LA for Williams Funeral ABC News
Throng gathers in LA for funeral of executed former gang leader USA Today
San Jose Mercury News - San Francisco Chronicle - Ninemsn - Guardian Unlimited - all 576 related »
Stanley Tookie Williams's mourners began arriving hours before his noon funeral, hoping to secure seats inside the church. By 10 am, police had blocked the streets surrounding the Bethel A.M.E. church, citing gridlock. By 11, hundreds of mourners formed two snaking lines -- one for men, one for women -- outside the church, and the 1,500-seat sanctuary was standing room only. Police began lining up in anti-riot mode across the street, watching Crips gang members arriving by the dozens. This was a funeral perhaps unlike any this humbled patch of South Los Angeles has seen. A few thousand people made their way through the narrow streets to pay their respects to Williams, who was executed at California's San Quentin State Prison on Dec. 13, 24 years after he was convicted of four murders that he swore he did not commit.
Crowd Gathers in LA for Williams Funeral ABC News
Throng gathers in LA for funeral of executed former gang leader USA Today
San Jose Mercury News - San Francisco Chronicle - Ninemsn - Guardian Unlimited - all 576 related »
Midwest plane's landing gear problem blamed on faulty bearing Boston Globe
A landing gear problem that forced a jetliner to make an emergency landing at Logan International Airport apparently was triggered by a faulty wheel bearing, a Federal Aviation Administration spokesman said Wednesday. Midwest Airlines Flight 210 landed safely on Tuesday night after spending about two hours circling the airport to burn off fuel. As it landed, sparks were seen coming from the landing gear under the Boeing 717's right wing. The plane, carrying 86 passengers and four crew members, had been en route to Milwaukee, when it was turned around.
Jet With Problem Lands Safely in Boston San Francisco Chronicle
Midwest Airlines flight makes emergency landing in Boston Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (subscription)
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A landing gear problem that forced a jetliner to make an emergency landing at Logan International Airport apparently was triggered by a faulty wheel bearing, a Federal Aviation Administration spokesman said Wednesday. Midwest Airlines Flight 210 landed safely on Tuesday night after spending about two hours circling the airport to burn off fuel. As it landed, sparks were seen coming from the landing gear under the Boeing 717's right wing. The plane, carrying 86 passengers and four crew members, had been en route to Milwaukee, when it was turned around.
Jet With Problem Lands Safely in Boston San Francisco Chronicle
Midwest Airlines flight makes emergency landing in Boston Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (subscription)
Minneapolis Star Tribune (subscription) - Baltimore Sun - Forbes - Hilton Head Island Packet - all 322 related »
New limits on soot pollution proposed Seattle Post Intelligencer
The Environmental Protection Agency, under court order to adopt new rules controlling fine dust and soot in the air, proposed Tuesday to make no change in long-term limits on that type of pollution. The proposed standards would, however, strengthen daily limits for exposure to microscopic particles of pollution belched from smokestacks and tailpipes. The action represents one of government's most far-reaching decisions, affecting millions of lives. In a telephone conference call with reporters, EPA Administrator Stephen Johnson and other officials said that most cities will be able to meet the new standards without taking any action beyond what is already required. Health and environmental groups had sued the government to force it to tighten its limits. Meeting a court-ordered deadline of midnight Tuesday, EPA ignored the recommendations of an expert clean air scientific advisory committee, which in June called for tougher limits.
Proposed Standards for Air Quality Criticized Washington Post
Air News Release: Stronger Standards for Particles Proposed Autochannel
Los Angeles Times - San Diego Union Tribune - Forbes - CNN - all 105 related »
The Environmental Protection Agency, under court order to adopt new rules controlling fine dust and soot in the air, proposed Tuesday to make no change in long-term limits on that type of pollution. The proposed standards would, however, strengthen daily limits for exposure to microscopic particles of pollution belched from smokestacks and tailpipes. The action represents one of government's most far-reaching decisions, affecting millions of lives. In a telephone conference call with reporters, EPA Administrator Stephen Johnson and other officials said that most cities will be able to meet the new standards without taking any action beyond what is already required. Health and environmental groups had sued the government to force it to tighten its limits. Meeting a court-ordered deadline of midnight Tuesday, EPA ignored the recommendations of an expert clean air scientific advisory committee, which in June called for tougher limits.
Proposed Standards for Air Quality Criticized Washington Post
Air News Release: Stronger Standards for Particles Proposed Autochannel
Los Angeles Times - San Diego Union Tribune - Forbes - CNN - all 105 related »
Source: Abramoff considers plea deal CNN
A Republican lobbyist at the center of a Capitol Hill bribery probe could cooperate with prosecutors if ongoing plea bargaining negotiations proceed smoothly in coming days, a person involved in the investigation said Tuesday. Jack Abramoff could end up pleading guilty under an arrangement that would settle a criminal case against him in Florida as well as potential charges in Washington, said a person close to the probe. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of discussions between prosecutors and Abramoff's lawyers.
Lobbyist Is Said to Discuss Plea and Testimony New York Times
Republicans sweat as former lobbyist prepares to snitch Times Online
Washington Post - Boston Globe - Bloomberg - Seattle Post Intelligencer - all 178 related »
A Republican lobbyist at the center of a Capitol Hill bribery probe could cooperate with prosecutors if ongoing plea bargaining negotiations proceed smoothly in coming days, a person involved in the investigation said Tuesday. Jack Abramoff could end up pleading guilty under an arrangement that would settle a criminal case against him in Florida as well as potential charges in Washington, said a person close to the probe. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of discussions between prosecutors and Abramoff's lawyers.
Lobbyist Is Said to Discuss Plea and Testimony New York Times
Republicans sweat as former lobbyist prepares to snitch Times Online
Washington Post - Boston Globe - Bloomberg - Seattle Post Intelligencer - all 178 related »
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