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Polls Have you or anyone in your family benfited from the services of the North Mississippi Medcial Center's Women's Hospital in the last 30 years? Yes
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Wake up and get ready for your day with the Daily Journal’s Newsbreak – a quick summary of news, sports, weather and everything else Northeast Mississippi to keep you informed and updated on the latest happenings in your community.
Browse by Date: Select month August 2016 July 2016 June 2016 May 2016 April 2016 March 2016 February 2016 January 2016 December 2015 November 2015 October 2015 September 2015 August 2015 July 2015 June 2015 May 2015 April 2015 March 2015 February 2015 January 2015 December 2014 November 2014 October 2014 September 2014 August 2014 July 2014 June 2014 May 2014 April 2014 March 2014 February 2014 January 2014 December 2013 November 2013 October 2013 September 2013 August 2013 July 2013 June 2013 May 2013 April 2013 March 2013 February 2013 January 2013 December 2012 November 2012 October 2012 September 2012 August 2012 July 2012 June 2012 May 2012 April 2012 March 2012 February 2012 January 2012 December 2011 November 2011 October 2011 September 2011 August 2011 July 2011 June 2011 May 2011 April 2011 March 2011 February 2011 January 2011 December 2010 November 2010 October 2010 September 2010 August 2010 July 2010 June 2010 May 2010 April 2010 March 2010 February 2010 January 2010 December 2009 November 2009 October 2009 September 2009 August 2009 July 2009 June 2009 May 2009 April 2009 March 2009 February 2009 January 2009 December 2008 November 2008 October 2008 September 2008 August 2008 July 2008 June 2008 May 2008 April 2008 March 2008 February 2008 January 2008 December 2007 November 2007 October 2007 September 2007 August 2007 July 2007 June 2007 May 2007 April 2007 March 2007 February 2007 January 2007 December 2006 November 2006 October 2006 September 2006 August 2006 July 2006 June 2006 May 2006 April 2006 March 2006 February 2006 January 2006 December 2005 November 2005 October 2005 September 2005 August 2005 July 2005 June 2005 May 2005 April 2005 March 2005 February 2005 January 2005 December 2004 November 2004 October 2004 September 2004 August 2004 July 2004 June 2004 May 2004 April 2004 March 2004 February 2004 January 2004 December 2003 November 2003 October 2003 September 2003 August 2003 July 2003 June 2003 May 2003 April 2003 March 2003 February 2003 January 2003 December 2002 November 2002 October 2002 September 2002 August 2002 July 2002 June 2002 May 2002 April 2002 March 2002 February 2002 January 2002 December 2001 November 2001 October 2001 September 2001 August 2001 July 2001 June 2001 May 2001 April 2001 March 2001 February 2001 January 2001 December 2000 November 2000 October 2000 September 2000 August 2000 July 2000 June 2000 May 2000 April 2000 March 2000 February 2000 January 2000 December 1999 November 1999 October 1999 September 1999 August 1999 July 1999 June 1999 May 1999 April 1999 March 1999 February 1999 January 1999 December 1998 November 1998 October 1998 September 1998 August 1998 July 1998 June 1998 May 1998 April 1998 March 1998 February 1998 January 1998 December 1997 November 1997 October 1997 September 1997 August 1997 July 1997 June 1997 May 1997 April 1997 March 1997 February 1997 January 1997 December 1996 November 1996 October 1996 September 1996 August 1996 July 1996 June 1996 May 1996 April 1996 March 1996 February 1996 January 1996
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Polls Do you or someone in your family use Tupelo's public recreation facilities? Yes
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This Farmall 400 is an example of one eligible for a rebate if the owner installs a roll bar and seat belts. Experts say tractors with narrow front ends, such as this one, are especiallhy prone to tipping over. (Forum News Service)
Boston Bates tries out a Case tractor during a recent Dakotafest farm show near Mitchell, S.D. The tractor he is on, and others in the background, have roll bars to make them safer if they tip over. (Forum News Service photo by Matt Gade)
MORGAN, Minn.—Ruth Meirick was like most members of most farm families: There was too much work to do to worry about safety.
Then, "it just happened." Her brother-in-law was moving a bale of hay and the tractor he was driving on a northeastern Iowa farm flipped over, killing him.
"It only takes a second to make a bad decision and another second to have a consequence of that bad decision," Meirick said. "We have dealt with the consequences of having a death in my own family."
RELATED:
The accident happened while Meirick still lived on her Riceville, Iowa, family farm. Now, she lives in Kasson, Minn.
"One thing I think we are failing is farm safety education," she said, something she is working to change as leader of a Minnesota Farm Bureau safety program.
Farmers often have an attitude about taking safety measures of "I don't need to do that," Meirick said.
"Everybody gets into their habits of the day," she said. "They forget to be mindful of farm safety."
But with more than 200 farm deaths in a decade, safety experts say it is time for a change of habit.
One of the country's most recent tractor rollover deaths was a common story.
Dan Zaiser, 53, was driving an International 460 tractor, with a loader attached, down a small hill when the tractor rolled over on his Missouri Valley, Iowa, farm, a Harrison County Sheriff's Department news release reported. Zaiser was pinned under the tractor.
The Aug. 20 accident came just after his wife, Kathy, announced on her Facebook page that the couple soon would move to Texas.
With tractor rollovers the top cause of fatal accidents, they have garnered attention. Several states, most recently Minnesota, have implemented programs to encourage farmers to add roll bars and seat belts to old tractors.
Assistant Commissioner Andrea Vaubel of the Minnesota Agriculture Department is running a program that began July 1 to offer rebates of up to $500 per farm or school tractor to install the roll bar and seat belt, known as the Roll Over Prevention System. The Legislature approved $250,000 of initial funding, and the department is seeking private donations.
RELATED:
In Wisconsin, no state money has been used to rebate some cost of protection systems for 150 tractors, although a state lawmaker there plans to seek a legislative appropriation. Private donations have floated the program so far.
The New York Center for Agriculture Medicine and Health administers roll over programs for Minnesota, Wisconsin and five other states. About 80 percent of tractor rollover deaths happen to experienced farmers, the organization says.
Rollover systems, best known as ROPS, are 99 percent effective in preventing injuries and death when a roll bar is used with a seat belt, it reports. And ROPS are 70 percent effective when belts are not used.
Roll bars costs can top $2,000, although many John Deere-sold ones are closer to $1,200. Minnesota rebates are capped at $500; more than $800 is available in other states.
Even though he paid some of the expense himself, Wisconsin farmer Josh Goebel said that it is "a lot cheaper than dying."
Scott Heiberger of the National Farm Medicine Center in Marshfield, Wis., posted on his blog that Goebel retrofitted his John Deere 3010 with a roll-over system after hearing another farmer talk about his accident.
"He was dumping dirt when it tipped," Goebel recalled. "Broke his leg in 20 spots, required 11 pins, he had broken ribs, a punctured lung."
Heiberger said that in Wisconsin many farmers seeking rebate money say they use the pre-mid-1980s model tractors more than other tractors, although some Minnesota farm leaders say the older tractors are being used less and less. Tractor makers voluntarily began installing roll bars or cabs with roll-over protection in about 1985. Minnesota's rebate program is for tractors without roll bars made before 1987.
While Heiberger said Wisconsin farmers vary on whether they would wear seat belts on roll bar-equipped tractors, they say they always would ask family members and employees to.
Long-time farm safety trainer Kevin Paap, Minnesota Farm Bureau president, said even he does not wear a seat belt on flat land, but certainly does when doing something dangerous or on hilly terrain. "Then you are going to click it."
Papp, who became a Vernon Center, Minn., firefighter in 1978, said it is important to wear seat belts after a roll bar is installed. "I picked up a guy who it was the roll bar that killed him."
Besides adopting the roll over system rebate program, legislators have required the state Agriculture Department compile a list by Oct. 1 showing existing farm safety resources. And by February, the department is to outline actions Minnesota can take to improve farm safety.
----
About the program
Roll Over Protection system rebates of up to $500 or 70 percent of the cost for Minnesota farmers and schools are available on a first-come, first-served basis until the state's $250,000 and private donations run out. Farmers may call (877) 767-7748 or email rops@nycamh for more information or to apply.

Tractor roll bars help save lives in most common farm accide...


Boston Bates tries out a Case tractor during a recent Dakotafest farm show near Mitchell, S.D. The tractor he is on, and others in the background, have roll bars to make them safer if they tip over. (Forum News Service photo by Matt Gade)
This Farmall 400 is an example of one eligible for a rebate if the owner installs a roll bar and seat belts. Experts say tractors with narrow front ends, such as this one, are especiallhy prone to tipping over. (Forum News Service)
MORGAN, Minn.—Ruth Meirick was like most members of most farm families: There was too much work to do to worry about safety.
Then, "it just happened." Her brother-in-law was moving a bale of hay and the tractor he was driving on a northeastern Iowa farm flipped over, killing him.
"It only takes a second to make a bad decision and another second to have a consequence of that bad decision," Meirick said. "We have dealt with the consequences of having a death in my own family."
The accident happened while Meirick still lived on her Riceville, Iowa, family farm. Now, she lives in Kasson, Minn.
"One thing I think we are failing is farm safety education," she said, something she is working to change as leader of a Minnesota Farm Bureau safety program.
Farmers often have an attitude about taking safety measures of "I don't need to do that," Meirick said.
"Everybody gets into their habits of the day," she said. "They forget to be mindful of farm safety."
But with more than 200 farm deaths in a decade, safety experts say it is time for a change of habit.
One of the country's most recent tractor rollover deaths was a common story.
Dan Zaiser, 53, was driving an International 460 tractor, with a loader attached, down a small hill when the tractor rolled over on his Missouri Valley, Iowa, farm, a Harrison County Sheriff's Department news release reported. Zaiser was pinned under the tractor.
The Aug. 20 accident came just after his wife, Kathy, announced on her Facebook page that the couple soon would move to Texas.
With tractor rollovers the top cause of fatal accidents, they have garnered attention. Several states, most recently Minnesota, have implemented programs to encourage farmers to add roll bars and seat belts to old tractors.
Assistant Commissioner Andrea Vaubel of the Minnesota Agriculture Department is running a program that began July 1 to offer rebates of up to $500 per farm or school tractor to install the roll bar and seat belt, known as the Roll Over Prevention System. The Legislature approved $250,000 of initial funding, and the department is seeking private donations.
In Wisconsin, no state money has been used to rebate some cost of protection systems for 150 tractors, although a state lawmaker there plans to seek a legislative appropriation. Private donations have floated the program so far.
The New York Center for Agriculture Medicine and Health administers roll over programs for Minnesota, Wisconsin and five other states. About 80 percent of tractor rollover deaths happen to experienced farmers, the organization says.
Rollover systems, best known as ROPS, are 99 percent effective in preventing injuries and death when a roll bar is used with a seat belt, it reports. And ROPS are 70 percent effective when belts are not used.
Roll bars costs can top $2,000, although many John Deere-sold ones are closer to $1,200. Minnesota rebates are capped at $500; more than $800 is available in other states.
Even though he paid some of the expense himself, Wisconsin farmer Josh Goebel said that it is "a lot cheaper than dying."
Scott Heiberger of the National Farm Medicine Center in Marshfield, Wis., posted on his blog that Goebel retrofitted his John Deere 3010 with a roll-over system after hearing another farmer talk about his accident.
"He was dumping dirt when it tipped," Goebel recalled. "Broke his leg in 20 spots, required 11 pins, he had broken ribs, a punctured lung."
Heiberger said that in Wisconsin many farmers seeking rebate money say they use the pre-mid-1980s model tractors more than other tractors, although some Minnesota farm leaders say the older tractors are being used less and less. Tractor makers voluntarily began installing roll bars or cabs with roll-over protection in about 1985. Minnesota's rebate program is for tractors without roll bars made before 1987.
While Heiberger said Wisconsin farmers vary on whether they would wear seat belts on roll bar-equipped tractors, they say they always would ask family members and employees to.
Long-time farm safety trainer Kevin Paap, Minnesota Farm Bureau president, said even he does not wear a seat belt on flat land, but certainly does when doing something dangerous or on hilly terrain. "Then you are going to click it."
Papp, who became a Vernon Center, Minn., firefighter in 1978, said it is important to wear seat belts after a roll bar is installed. "I picked up a guy who it was the roll bar that killed him."
Besides adopting the roll over system rebate program, legislators have required the state Agriculture Department compile a list by Oct. 1 showing existing farm safety resources. And by February, the department is to outline actions Minnesota can take to improve farm safety.
----
About the program
Roll Over Protection system rebates of up to $500 or 70 percent of the cost for Minnesota farmers and schools are available on a first-come, first-served basis until the state's $250,000 and private donations run out. Farmers may call (877) 767-7748 or email rops@nycamh for more information or to apply.


By Serajul Quadir
DHAKA (Reuters) - Bangladesh security forces killed three Islamist militants on Saturday, including a Bangladesh-born Canadian citizen accused of masterminding an attack on a cafe in Dhaka last month that killed 22 people, mostly foreigners, police said.
The militants were cornered in a hideout on the outskirts of the capital and, having refused to surrender, were killed in the ensuing gunbattle, Monirul Islam, the head of the Dhaka police counterterrorism unit, told Reuters.
He initially said four militants had been killed but later revised the number to three.
U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry is due to visit on Monday to discuss security after a series of killings targeting liberals and religious minorities in the mostly Muslim country.
Islamic State claimed responsibility for the assault on the cafe in a posh neighborhood where militants singled out non-Muslims and foreigners, killing Italians, Japanese, an American and an Indian.
The government has consistently denied the presence in the country of any transnational militant organization such as al Qaeda or Islamic State.
But police believe that Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh, which has pledged allegiance to Islamic State, was involved in organizing the cafe attack.
The scale of that attack and the targeting of foreigners has cast a shadow over foreign investment in the poor South Asian economy, whose $28 billion garments export industry is the world's second largest.
"This operation definitely will uphold confidence and the image of Bangladesh," said Bangladesh's prime minister Sheikh Hasina.
She told a news conference: "With this killing (Tamim) one curse has been removed from our shoulders."
MASTERMIND'S DEATH
The suspected mastermind killed in Saturday's raid was identified as Tamim Ahmed Chowdhury, a 30-year-old Canadian citizen born in Bangladesh. Analysts say Islamic State in April identified Chowdhury as its national commander.
"According to our evidence we are now sure that Tamim was among the three killed," Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan told reporters. "So the chapter of Tamim has ended here."
Khan said Chowdhury was one of the main suppliers of funds and arms for several recent attacks. He had returned to Bangladesh in October 2013 via Abu Dhabi, A.K.M. Shahidul Hoque, the inspector general of police, said.
The raid followed a tip off from the landlord of the house where the militants were staying, Hoque told reporters. The landlord said the militants had described themselves as businessmen in the medical trade.
Police spokesman Masudur Rahman said the fingerprints of two associates of Tamim who were also killed on Saturday have been sent to the election commission to confirm their identity.
"Police collected evidence from the house though they (the associates) destroyed a laptop and some other documents," he told Reuters.
They rented the house earlier this month and police recovered several grenades, arms and bullets.
Last month police offered a 2 million taka ($26,000) reward for information enabling them to detain Tamim.
Police have also detained two men who had been among the survivors of the restaurant attack.
Hasnat Karim, who holds dual British and Bangladeshi citizenship, and Tahmid Hasib Khan, a student of Toronto University, had been dining separately in the restaurant.
A lawyer for Karim, a 47-year-old engineer, has said his client is innocent. Relatives of Khan, 22, say he is innocent too.
Earlier this month, security forces arrested four women suspected of being members of Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh.
(Reporting by Serajul Quadir; writing by Krishna N. Das; Editing by Simon Cameron-Moore/Ruth Pitchford)

Bangladesh police kill 'mastermind' of Dhaka cafe attack


By Serajul Quadir DHAKA (Reuters) - Bangladesh security forces killed three Islamist militants on Saturday, including a Bangladesh-born Canadian citizen accused of masterminding an attack on a cafe in Dhaka last month that killed 22 people, mostly foreigners, police said. The militants were cornered


Minnesota Vikings quarterback Teddy Bridgewater (5) throws the ball during the first quarter in a preseason game against the San Diego Chargers at U.S. Bank Stadium. Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Athletic trainer Eric Sugarman said in a statement Tuesday night that Bridgewater “suffered a complete tear to his ACL and other structural damage” to his left knee. He said “recovery time will be significant.’’
Bridgewater was taken by ambulance to a local hospital with what Sugarman said was “quickly diagnosed as a dislocated knee.” Bridgewater was sedated and had an MRI, and the full extent of the injury was determined.
Sugarman said Bridgewater will have surgery in the next few days and “there appears to be no nerve or arterial damage.’’ He said he’s expected “to make a full recovery.”
The third-year man went down without being touched after dropping back and grabbed his left knee. Bridgewater looked to be in agony as players and medical personnel rushed to him.
“I watched it on tape,’’ said Vikings coach Mike Zimmer. “It was a non-contact thing it looked like to me. Just a freaky deal.’’
Zimmer spoke at an afternoon news conference before the full extent of the injury was known. Still, he said then “it doesn’t look good’’ for Bridgewater to play again this season.
The team canceled practice at 1:55 p.m., 25 minutes after it started, and the ambulance left with Bridgewater at 2:19 p.m.
When the injury happened, several players cursed. Several threw their helmets to the ground, including guard Brandon Fusco and linebacker Eric Kendricks.
Zimmer then his told his players that practice was over, and none were made available for comment. Most left the field, but running backs Adrian Peterson and Matt Asiata, backup quarterback Shaun Hill, defensive end Brian Robison and wide receiver Adam Thielen were among those who stayed to kneel around their fallen teammate and looked to be praying.
“I just talked to (Bridgewater) when he was coming off the field,’’ Zimmer said. “I’ve talked to his mom a couple times, just trying to update her about what’s going on. … (Bridgewater) wasn’t saying much. I just told him, ‘Hang in there, and we hope the best for (him).’’’
For now, Hill, a 15-year veteran, will take over at quarterback for the Vikings, who close the preseason Thursday against Los Angeles at U.S. Bank Stadium and open the regular season Sept. 11 at Tennessee.
“I have confidence in Shaun,’’ Zimmer said. “I think he has played great this preseason. He has been in two-minute drills. He has done a phenomenal job, and the thing we all have to remember is, this is about the team. This isn’t about a one-man deal. We all feel terrible if it is significant, real significant, for Teddy, but this is about the team. We have a real good team.’’
The only healthy quarterbacks on the roster are Hill, who threw seven passes last season for Minnesota after signing as a free agent, and undrafted rookie Joel Stave. Third-stringer Taylor Heinicke is out until at least October after cutting his foot in a freak accident last month at his home.
Minnesota had waived journeyman quarterback Brad Sorensen earlier in the day before Bridgewater was hurt, and Zimmer said he could be brought back. Zimmer said he and general manager Rick Spielman “have been talking about’’ the possibility of bringing in a veteran quarterback.
Bridgewater had started 29 straight regular-season games for Minnesota, and has been considered a rising star. After missing a preseason game Aug. 18 at Seattle because of an apparent sore shoulder, he came back last Sunday to complete 12 of 16 passes for 161 yards and a touchdown in a 23-10 exhibition win over San Diego.
That was the first game in spanking new U.S. Bank Stadium, and optimism was running high. Tuesday, though, was a real downer for a team that has aspirations of winning the Super Bowl.
“It’s a normal reaction to be devastated,’’ said CBS analyst and former Vikings quarterback Rich Gannon. “You got these high hopes and to the players, the coaching staff, the general manager, the owners, it’s a real shocker. But this happens every week in the NFL, a superstar or a key player goes down.
“This is what you draft for, this is why you have depth and have a backup quarterback like Shaun Hill, a guy who’s been in big situations before and isn’t going to panic. … Does it help your playoff chances? No. But everything they’ve talked about and hope to accomplish is still there in front of them.’’
Zimmer message Tuesday was that the Vikings will press on without Bridgewater. He brought up his wife Vikki having died during the season in 2009 when Zimmer was Cincinnati defensive coordinator.
“It’s tough today but tomorrow the sun’s going to (come up),’’ Zimmer said. “Hey, my wife passed away seven years ago, right? It was a tough day, the sun came up the next day, the world kept spinning. People kept going to work. That’s what we’re going to do.’’
Zimmer said he spoke several times Tuesday with hall of famer Bill Parcells, who was Dallas’ coach from 2002-06 when Zimmer was the defensive coordinator and is a mentor. He said he had several conversations “in spirit’’ with his father, Bill, who died last year.
“We’re not going to stick our heads in the sand,’’ Zimmer said. “We’re going to figure out a way. Everybody can count us out if they want, but I think that’d be the wrong thing to do.’’
After news of Bridgewater’s injury got out, there were numerous tweets of support from teammates and other players around the NFL. Seattle quarterback Russell Wilson wrote, “Praying for you,’’ and Oakland quarterback Derek Carr wrote, “I hope you are good bro! My family and I are praying for you!’’
Sen. Al Franken sent out a tweet, reading, “Minnesota wishes you a speedy recovery, and I know you’ll bounce back even stronger.’’
Zimmer has a special bond with his young quarterback, who entered the NFL in 2014, Zimmer’s first season with the Vikings. He got emotional talking about him.
“Teddy is such an amazing kid,’’ Zimmer said. “Everybody loves him. So it was disappointing for (the players) and I didn’t think we were going to get much out of practice. We’ll get back in there (Wednesday) and we’ll get back to work.’’

Bridgewater to undergo season-ending surgery on knee


Photo: The New Times Shoppers at a city supermarket (file photo).
opinion
The current dispute between South Africa and Zimbabwe relating to the latter’s import restrictions on groceries and other products such as building materials underlines the importance of a vibrant dispute resolution system in trade relations.
The import restrictions at issue were imposed in terms of Statutory Instrument 64 of 2016 (SI 64) under the auspices of Zimbabwe’s Control of Goods Act.
According to the press statement issued by Zimbabwean Minister of Industry and Commerce Mike Bimha on June 22, the aim of SI 64 is not to “ban” the importation of the goods in question, but rather to “regulate” them. Further, “the main purpose of SI 64 is to promote the revival of our local industries” and the support so provided to the relevant local producers is “not to be open-ended but time-bound and sector-specific”. The relevant local industry is supposed to use the protection from imports to “retool and bring in new technology and address production inefficiencies”.
The products in the SI 64 can only be imported under licence issued by the Minister of Industry and Commerce whose ministry, based on the press statement, “will allow importation of goods which can be produced locally, when local production cannot meet the national demand; in an endeavour to avoid shortages on the local market”. In other words, it seems that importation will be allowed only to prevent shortages, otherwise a virtual import ban has been imposed.
Through SI 64, Zimbabwe seems to be attempting to apply “safeguard measures”, one of the legitimate trade remedies against imports, provided both substantive and procedural provisions for their application are complied with. Zimbabwe is a member of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and the Sadc Trade Protocol and is therefore obliged to observe the relevant provisions of the two regimes in its imposition of any trade restrictions.
Safeguard action can be taken when a surge of imports leads to domestic industries not being able to cope with an increase in competition. These temporary measures allow the domestic industry to adjust and improve competitiveness. Safeguards may only be used to prevent or remedy serious injury or to facilitate the adjustment to increased competition for the domestic industry due to further trade liberalisation.
The procedure to be followed before the imposition of safeguard measures is more complex than that for other trade remedy instruments such as anti-dumping duties (to counter dumping) and countervailing measures (to counter subsidies). Unlike anti-dumping and countervailing measures, safeguard measures are not meant to counter unfair trade practices, but rather to provide succour to the domestic industry where it suffers “serious” injury as a result of legitimate trade.
As such, a safeguard measure is one of the most difficult instruments to use (that is if strict provisions of the WTO are applied). For example, a WTO member state that wishes to impose safeguard measures has to first initiate an investigation to determine that there has been a surge of imports as a result of unforeseen developments and that such increased imports of the subject product(s) is recent, sudden, sharp and significant enough. In addition, there should be a causal link between the serious injury so suffered by the local industry and the surge in the volume of imports arising from the unforeseen developments.
In circumstances where delay could result in injury that would be difficult to repair, a WTO member state is allowed to impose provisional safeguard measures (which should not exceed 200 days) while investigations are still underway provided a preliminary finding is made that there is clear evidence that increased imports have caused or are threatening to cause serious injury. However, such provisional measures can only take the form of tariff increases which should be refunded if the final investigation does not determine that increased imports have caused or threatened to cause serious injury to the domestic industry.
Article 20 and Article 20 BIS of the Sadc Trade Protocol contains provisions similar to those contained in the WTO Agreement on safeguards regarding the procedure to be followed before safeguards could be imposed and on provisional safeguard measures.
Should Zimbabwe’s action be regarded as safeguard action, that is, provisional safeguard measures, a violation of both the WTO Agreement on Safeguards and of Articles 20 and 20 BIS of the Sadc Trade Protocol is apparent. For instance, the measure imposed should only be a tariff increase pending an investigation and not a ban requiring a licence which can only be issued to prevent shortages in the local market where domestic production cannot satisfy demand.
Interestingly, SI 64 as well as the subsequent press statement by Bimha do not make any reference to any enabling provisions of the Sadc Trade Protocol or WTO provisions, as if Zimbabwe is not bound by its trade liberalisation commitments regionally and internationally — only domestic legislation is mentioned. While the Sadc Trade Protocol provides a mechanism, Annex VI, to be followed in the event of a dispute, to date no trade dispute has been considered under this system.
At present, considering the fact that Annex VI has never been implemented and the Sadc Tribunal was disbanded (while a new system is being devised), there is virtually no rules-based dispute settlement system in Sadc. The only available forum is the WTO since both South Africa and Zimbabwe are members thereof.
However, the general “culture” in southern African trade communities is to avoid hauling each other before a dispute settlement body in preference of “diplomatic” solutions. This is the path that South Africa seems to be taking and has reportedly given Zimbabwe three weeks to lift the restrictions to South African imports.
The calculation, if any, from Zimbabwe’s side is perhaps that Sadc lacks capacity to enforce its trade liberalisation provisions and that South Africa is unlikely to invoke the WTO dispute settlement system to deal with this matter.
Where due process is not followed and in the absence of an effective rules-based dispute settlement system, a trade dispute such as the one sparked by SI 64 between South Africa and Zimbabwe could easily raise political temperatures and potentially become something much bigger and uglier.
Should Zimbabwe refuse to relent, it’s unclear what South Africa will do. However, to avoid further escalation of the dispute into unhelpful political wrangling, South Africa should perhaps take the high road by referring the matter to the only rules-based system available under the circumstances — the WTO.
Khumalo is a senior associate at Tutwa Consulting, a trade and competition law consultant and a part-time commissioner at the International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa. He has extensive experience as both an international trade policy expert and a trade and competition law attorney.

Zimbabwe: Govt, South Africa in Trade Dispute?


NEW YORK — Ryan Lochte isn't saying whether he'll return to Brazil to face a charge of filing a false police report over a gas station encounter during the Olympics.
Lochte tells ABC's "Good Morning America" his legal team is dealing with the situation, adding "we're just trying to get this over with."
Despite his current woes, Lochte was named Tuesday as one of the contestants on the upcoming edition of ABC's "Dancing with the Stars."
Lochte admits he lied about having a gun held to his head at a Rio de Janeiro gas station, where he and three other American swimmers had stopped to use a restroom. Lochte says he has offered to reimburse fellow swimmer James Feigen for a nearly $11,000 fine Feigen paid to resolve legal issues and leave the country.

Lochte mum on Rio return, plugs 'Dancing with the Stars' gig


NEW YORK — Ryan Lochte isn't saying whether he'll return to Brazil to face a charge of filing a false police report over a gas station encounter during the Olympics.


Let’s please stop telling parents that it is normal to be terrified for even the shortest periods of time when kids are doing the most mundane of activities: walking to or from school.
Because here’s what NBC’s Alyssa Newcomb reported the other day in an piece on “Back-to-School Safety Tech That Helps Keep Kids Safe” (the title alone reinforcing the idea that kids are NOT safe without us taking new, tech-assisted precautions): “No matter how mature and responsible a child is, those few blocks without adult supervision are enough to make most parents worry.”
Since when? Since violent crime is back to the level it was in 1963? Since we are living in the safest times in human history, according to Harvard’s Stephen Pinker? Since even child deaths at the hands of kidnappers – already extremely rare – are now one fifth of what they were just 20 years ago? “Most parents worry” about a few-block walk, in these particularly safe times, even if they know their kids are mature and responsible?
If so, that seems like some kind of illness. Yes, it’s normal to worry if the neighborhood is truly crime-ridden. But otherwise, it’s just useless panic.
Goosing this panic makes sense for only two groups of people: the media, who depend on fear to keep us engaged, and the makers of tech tracking devices, who depend on our dollars to stay in business.
And so reporter Newcomb goes on to list four products that track kids and apprise the parents of their location. The PocketFinder is one. It goes in the child’s backpack “and updates a parent’s smartphone with their location every two minutes.”
What a joy that makes walking home: Follow that squirrel, kid, and mom calls 911.
Then there’s Life 360, which is free and shows every family member’s location. But if you pay a premium (aha!) you can get “expanded history data and a live adviser for urgent situations.” Just suggesting “urgent situations” makes the walk sound dire.
The Canary, also profiled, is part of a $199 home security system, allowing you “to see live video and hear audio from their home. Parents can even replay the video clip from when their child walked in the door, ensuring that they were with only authorized house guests.”
This seems less like a normal household device and more like something you’d find above the door at a 7-Eleven.
And finally there’s the August Smart Lock, which lets you “see and speak to whoever is at your door, even if you’re not home.” It also locks and unlocks your door, long distance “making it ideal if your kid forgets their key,” according to Newcomb. At $400, it might be more ideal fiscally to make your kid a few extra keys, or hide one someplace clever.
So now I, too, have some advice on how to keep your kid safe on the way home from school — advice that the TV report, in its haste to hail technological solutions to nearly nonexistent dangers, forgot. Teach your children to:
Look left, look right, look left again when crossing the street.
Make sure that anyone turning sees them in the crosswalk.
Know that they CAN talk to anyone; they CANNOT go off with anyone.
And also understand that they should not get into anyone’s car.
Those are tips that make a lot of sense and, by golly, are free! Of course, for a premium, I will add a new and pointless tip every month. Sign up now!

Column: Is the walk to school really so terrifying?


ISLAMABAD Pakistan's Supreme Court on Monday upheld verdicts and death sentences in the cases of 16 civilians convicted of terrorism-related offences by military courts, the first time the highest court has ruled on the legality of cases tried by the military.
A five-member bench ruled that the appellants had not proved the military violated their constitutional rights or failed to follow procedure, in a blow to some activists who contend the courts routinely violate people's rights.
Pakistan's government empowered military courts to try civilian terrorism suspects in January 2015, following an attack by Pakistani Taliban militants on a school in Peshawar that killed more than 130 pupils.
The military has so far convicted 104 civilians in the secret tribunals. Of those, 100 have been sentenced to death, and four to life imprisonment. All but six are said by the military to have confessed.
Those whose appeals were dismissed on Monday included nine members of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and two al-Qaeda members, according to Pakistan's military. Two convicts are said to have been involved in the Peshawar school killings.
Pakistan has been battling the TTP, an umbrella organization of militant groups fighting to impose strict Islamic law, and its allies including al-Qaeda since 2007.
Lawyers for all 16 convicts contended their clients had been tried in secret, without access to legal counsel of their choice, and that their confessions had been recorded illegally. They also claimed they were denied access to military court records when preparing their appeals.
The complaints echoed those made by lawyers and families of those convicted by the courts to Reuters. Two families and one lawyer said they had been threatened after filing appeals. Several told Reuters that confessions were "coerced" by the military.
Sajid Ilyas Bhatti, the deputy attorney general representing the government, denied the appellants' claims, saying they had been accorded their rights.
He argued that military court proceedings were "immune from challenge on the ground of any alleged violation of the fundamental rights".
In its 182-page judgment, the court concluded that the appellants failed to prove wrongdoing on the part of the military authorities.
(Writing by Asad Hashim; Editing by Nick Macfie)

Pakistan Supreme Court dismisses civilian appeals against military convictions


Pakistan's Supreme Court on Monday upheld verdicts and death sentences in the cases of 16 civilians convicted of terrorism-related offences by military courts, the first time the highest court has ruled on the legality of cases tried by the military.


Libyan forces push into last IS-held areas of Sirte
Forces loyal to Libya's UN-backed unity government pushed Sunday into the last areas of Sirte held by the Islamic State group in what was the jihadists' coastal stronghold, a spokesman said.
"Our forces entered the last areas held by Daesh in Sirte: district number one and district number three," said Rida Issa, using an Arabic acronym for IS.
"The final battle for Sirte has started," said the spokesman for forces backing the Tripoli-based Government of National Accord.
Forces loyal to Libya's UN-backed government gather next to tanks on August 27, 2016 in Sirte during a military operation to clear the Islamic State group from the city ©Mahmud Turkia (AFP)
About 1,000 pro-GNA fighters were taking part in the offensive, he said, adding a tank had destroyed a bomb-rigged car before IS jihadists could use it to target the forces at the start of the assault.
An AFP photographer saw several tanks and armed vehicles move towards district number one and heard gunfire and rocket explosions as they entered the northern neighbourhood.
The pro-GNA forces said on their Facebook page that the offensive came "after air strikes overnight by the warplanes of international support".
Pro-GNA forces, backed since August 1 by US air strikes, began an assault in mid-May to expel IS from Sirte.
The jihadists seized control of the city, which had been the hometown of Libya's slain dictator Moamer Kadhafi, in June 2015.
The pro-GNA forces fought their way into Sirte on June 9 and seized the jihadists' headquarters at the Ouagadougou conference centre on August 10.
Since entering the city, they have faced a barrage of sniper fire, suicide bombings and booby traps, pinning down the jihadists in a downtown area near the sea.
More than 350 pro-GNA fighters have been killed and nearly 2,000 wounded in the battle, according to medical sources. IS casualty figures are unavailable.
Sirte lies 450 kilometres (280 miles) east of Tripoli.


Forces loyal to Libya's UN-backed unity government pushed Sunday into the last areas of Sirte held by the Islamic State group in what was the jihadists' coas...


Libyan forces push into last IS-held areas of Sirte


2:49 Tumwater Emerald City Smoothie reopens Pause
0:42 Work party at LBA Woods in Olympia
3:18 Pete Carroll on Seahawks' win over DAL in 3rd preseason GM
0:41 The Olympian's 2016 preseason practice tour: Rochester Warriors
2:28 Russell Wilson on Seahawks' offense entering third exhibition game
5:36 TNT's Gregg Bell, Dave Boling on what to expect from Seahawks vs. Cowboys
1:50 Pete Carroll: Thomas Rawls will play in Seahawks' opener
2:08 Tenino vandalism victim discusses racist graffiti
1:49 The Olympian's 2016 preseason practice tour: Tenino Beavers
4:46 Gregg Bell, Dave Boling on Jahri Evans at guard and on Seahawks' running backs

John McGrath: Mariners’ mix-and-match roster proving to be the ultimate melting pot


The Seattle Mariners have experimented extensively with their starting lineup, making more transactions than any other team in baseball this year. It seems to be working, as the Mariners are still in the hunt for a wild card berth.


OFF THE COAST OF LIBYA (AP) — Italian naval ships and vessels from non-government groups rescued thousands of migrants off the Libyan coast on Monday, the latest surge in desperate attempts to flee to Europe driven by war, poverty, and human traffickers.
The dramatic operation took place just 21 kilometers (13 miles) north of the town of Sabratha in Libya. Groups such as Proactiva Open Arms and Doctors Without Borders helped take on some 3,000 people who had been travelling in some 20 small wooden boats.
In images and video by The Associated Press, migrants from Eritrea and Somalia cheered as the rescue boats arrived, with some jumping into the water and swimming toward them while others carefully carried babies onto the rescue ships.
Their boats too weak and technically unequipped for a voyage across the stretch of the Mediterranean to the shores of Italy, the migrants had set off with a bit of gasoline in the overcrowded vessels, hoping to make it at least 15-20 miles out to sea and reach awaiting rescuers.
Tens of thousands of Africans take the dangerous Mediterranean Sea route as a gateway to a better life in Europe, alongside those fleeing wars from Syria to Afghanistan.
Libya’s chaos and lack of border controls have made it into a transit route. Since the 2011 ouster and killing of longtime Libyan dictator Moammar Gadhafi, the country has sunk into lawlessness, facing a myriad of militias vying for influence and an emerging Islamic State affiliate.
In June, the European Union expanded its anti-smuggling operation in the central Mediterranean to include training Libyan coastal and naval forces, which are intercepting boats and returning migrants to Libya, where some are being held in abusive conditions.
Rights groups and experts estimate that there are about 3,500 migrants held in roughly 20 official detention facilities across Libya. Others are held in informal detention centers controlled by criminal gangs or armed groups.
___
This story has been corrected to show that the Spanish navy did not take part in the operation.

European ships rescue thousands of migrants off Libyan coast


Jacob Allen (left) Jason Sides and Dominic Scelzi race Friday night at River Cities Speedway. The World of Outlaws make their second appearance of the season in Grand Forks. Jesse Trelstad/ Grand Forks Herald
Mark Dobmeier competes for best time during a qualifying lap at the River Cities Speedway in Grand Forks Friday night. (Jesse Trelstad/ Grand Forks Herald)
Austin Pierce sits at the turn after being hit in the fourth heat during Friday night's races at the River Cities Speedway. Jesse Trelstad/ Grand Forks Herald
Emergency crews help racer Trent Stengl after he went over the track Friday night at River Cities Speedway in Grand Forks N.D. (Jesse Trelstad/ Grand Forks Herald)
Donny Schatz is pushing 40. But he's not slowing down at all. Actually, he's getting faster and faster. And more dominant at River Cities Speedway, too.
In dominating fashion, Schatz led from start to finish in winning Friday night's 40-lap World of Outlaws feature at The Bullring before a crowd of more than 5,000 fans.
It was the fourth straight WoO win for Schatz at RCS. The Fargo driver also has won six of the past seven WoO features at RCS dating back to 2013.
For good measure, Schatz almost pulled a double-double as he finished second in the preceding late model feature.
"I was questioning my sanity when I started," said Schatz. "That late model feature was pretty demanding. I'm glad it was only 25 laps. I try to get as fit as I can. Some days, though, it's not enough.
"But if I didn't have a great race car I would have been in a bit of trouble. We had really good notes on this place from before."
Schatz led all 40 laps. It is believed that's first time a driver has led all 40 laps of a WoO feature since the circuit started racing in Grand Forks in 2007.
Brad Sweet was second, 4.026 seconds behind Schatz. RCS regular Mark Dobmeier, who started sixth, finished third, 6.185 seconds off the pace. It was Dobmeier's best RCS finish with the Outlaws.
"I would have killed for a caution flag," said Dobmeier. "We had a great car. In the dash, we took a gamble set-up wise and it definitely paid off. We had a great car in the feature. But we started so far back. We were racing for 10th place for a while it seemed. I was trying to save my tires but I said, 'Heck with it.' I got up on the wheel and away we went.
"But I wish I could have had one more whack at Donny."
Schatz has won three straight WoO features since the Knoxville Nationals two weeks ago. At RCS, he set the quick time at 10.027 seconds, won his heat race and also the dash, which left him starting on the pole.
"The track was awesome," said Schatz. "But the hardest part of a 40-lap race is when you're in the lead. I had to go all over the place to get past lapped cars. You just have to go where you have to go."
Logan Schuchart and Joey Saldana rounded out the top five.
Schatz also posted the fastest lap time in the feature at 10.684 seconds (101.086 mph).
There were 40 cars that showed up to race, one of the biggest WoO fields since the circuit's first race at RCS.
Four other RCS regulars qualified for the 24-car feature—Wade Nygaard, Cory Mack, Casey Mack and Austin Pierce.
Dustin Strand edged Schatz to win the late model feature.
Strand led much of the race and edged the hard-charging Schatz by 0.297 of a second.
The Outlaws will race at the Nodak Speedway in Minot on Sunday.


Minnesota Vikings quarterback Teddy Bridgewater went down with an injury in practice on Tuesday, causing the team to cut short its session after 25 minutes.
Bridgewater dropped back to pass during a drill, planted his foot and immediately went down. He grabbed his left knee while concerned team-mates and athletic trainers huddled around him.
Coach Mike Zimmer eventually called off practice, and the rest of the team walked off the field while Bridgewater was being attended to. Moments later, an ambulance pulled into the team’s Winter Park headquarters, stayed for about 10 minutes and then pulled away.
Jim Brown backs Colin Kaepernick as Rodney Harrison says QB 'is not black' Read more
The nature of Bridgewater’s injury was not immediately clear. The team said Zimmer would address the situation at a later time.
Players were visibly distraught as they exited the field, some hurling expletives into the air. A small group remained behind, huddled around him in prayer as team athletic trainers worked to immobilize his leg.
If Bridgewater is unable to return in a timely manner, there is little behind him on the depth chart. Shaun Hill is the primary backup, but he’s 36 years old and has played only sparingly over the last five years.
Bridgewater is entering his third season in the NFL and the Vikings were counting on him to take some major steps forward after a promising start to his career. He helped lead the Vikings to the NFC North championship last season as more of a game manager, but Zimmer and offensive coordinator Norv Turner have said that they expected him to be much more of a playmaker in 2016.
Bridgewater missed the second preseason game with a sore shoulder, but was very sharp on Sunday against San Diego. He went 12 for 16 for 161 yards and a touchdown in two quarters of work, leaving Vikings players and fans fully confident as the team starts to prepare for the season opener at Tennessee on 11 September.
The Vikings host the Los Angeles Rams in their final preseason game Thursday night, though Bridgewater and most of the starters were not expected to play.

Teddy Bridgewater injury leaves team-mates distraught at Vikings training


Minnesota Vikings quarterback Teddy Bridgewater went down with an injury in practice, causing the team to cut short its session after 25 minutes.


By Jason Pan / Staff reporter
Taiwanese sports officials and fans were dismayed by the news that the Japan Table Tennis Association allegedly issued an order to prohibit Olympic bronze medalist Ai Fukuhara from marrying her Taiwanese boyfriend, Chiang Hung-chieh (江宏傑), who is also an Olympic table tennis player.
Fukuhara and Chiang, both 27, have been in a relationship for more than a year, and it was reported that they planned to get married.
However, Josei Jishin magazine reported that Japanese table tennis officials ordered Fukuhara to put off the plans, because they wanted her to concentrate on her training and lead the Japanese women’s table tennis team at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
The report said Japanese officials also had objections over Fukuhara marrying Chiang, because it would be a “status-gap marriage,” a Japanese term referring to a couple having significant disparity between their incomes, social status and personal values.
Other Japanese media outlets said that Fukuhara is the nation’s top female table tennis player, who was once the world’s No. 4 player, with an annual income estimated at ￥100 million (US$982,318), while Chiang is on a much lower level with a world ranking of 49, and was eliminated in the first round at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics, and only has an estimated annual income of ￥4 million.
Many Taiwanese sports fans were angered at the perceived slight against Chiang. Some fans posted messages condemning Japanese sports officials, saying they have no right to interfere in people’s affairs, adding that it is appalling to dictate a young woman’s choice of a marriage partner.
In response to queries from Taiwanese media on Friday, Chiang said: “I cannot say anything about this matter. Whatever I say would not be right at this time.”
Fukuhara tried to dispel the speculation by posting a photograph on Facebook showing two cantaloupes filled with ice cream, tagged with Chiang’s name, whereby he responded with: “I will take you there after finishing my competition.”
Taiwanese sports officials were also alarmed, as they want to see the marriage go ahead, saying that Fukuhara could be granted Taiwanese citizenship to enable her to compete in table tennis matches for Taiwan at the Olympics, an idea which does not sit well with Japanese authorities.
The relationship between Fukuhara and Chiang was also covered by Chinese media outlets, since Fukuhara can write and speak Mandarin due to her training in China by top coaches from an early age and she is viewed as a celebrity there.

Table tennis star told not to marry boyfriend: report


Taiwanese sports officials and fans were dismayed by the news that the Japan Table Tennis Association allegedly issued an order to prohibit Olympic bronze medalist Ai Fukuhara from marrying her Taiwanese boyfriend, Chiang Hung-chieh (江宏傑), who is also an Olympic table tennis player.


Globally the maritime sector is passing through challenges but it also provides opportunities for growth especially in developing countries where nobody can talk of excess capacity.
In good and bad times alike government play a significant role in the growth of maritime sector through visioning, regulation, infrastructural development, creating the right environment,amongst others .
This is why the recent developments in Nigeria’s maritime sector is gladdening . We have a Minister of transportation who understands the power of the private sector and a regulator who knows that regulation can make or mar an industry .
For once industry players have absolute confidence that the regulator is up and doing ,focused and ready to make necessary changes to put the industry on a sound footing to run .
The global maritime picture is worrisome. There is excess ship building capacity in almost all the ship building centres of the world including China and South Korea that recently have been acknowledged as the topmost two ship building nations in the world ahead of Europe.
The fall in the price of crude oil has also affected the demand for new vessels and platforms . Funding of new ship facilities is a big challenge as return on investment has been slow .
Competition for new projects is intense between China, Korea and Singapore on one hand and Europeans on the other hand . There is also a serious gap in skilled professionals which ordinarily the developing world should take advantage of.
This is despite the fact that in China alone thirty four million persons are employed in the maritime sector yet China do not have enough trained personnel to man the industry. The picture of maritime in Africa is not better. Despite new oil finds which should fuel growth in the sector ,the multiplier effect is not being felt.
There are no new shipyards established in the past one year, vessels demand is not commensurate with expected trend mostly due to low price of crude oil and low investment in the oil and gas sector . Exports which is expected to boom has not grown geometrically.
Africa thus has not maximized the benefit of excess capacity and low demand of vessels in Europe and Asia which could have seen a shift to Africa to handle the effect of competition. Nigeria appears worse off in this interplay of forces .
A new unpredictable forex exchange regime appears to stifle investment in the maritime sector by making it unattractive. Dip in price of crude oil which is the main driver of maritime growth in Nigeria has not helped matters .
Insecurity and piracy has contributed to affect low vessel traffic to the Gulf of Guinea. Excess charges and multiple charges are also having negative impact in both import and export .
Poor infrastructure at the ports and access road to the ports has further complicated the matter. The country do not have a national fleet thereby tilting the balance of trade and cargo against her.
It’s only natural area of strength skilled manpower is grossly underdeveloped . Nigeria thus have not taken advantage of its geographical location to assert itself as a maritime hub. Two developments seems to give observers of the industry hope of a bright future .
One is the realization by Hon Minister of transportation Rt Hon Rotimi Amaechi that the private sector working with Government can change this gloomy picture .
The second is the current leadership in Nigeria maritime Administration and safety Agency NIMASA which has proven to be visionary ,dynamic and goal oriented. This is what is referred to in the industry as Government- Stakeholder model for the development of the industry in Nigeria .
The federal ministry of transportation is driving the national fleet project through the private sector. This is to address the gap in cargo sharing , training needs of young cadets , employment opportunities that abound and restore the dignity of Nigeria at the comity of maritime nations without wasting government scare foreign resources. The ministry also intends to upgrade facilities at the ports soon using the public private partnership model .
There has been increased industry networking since Amaechi assumed office as minister . To complement the trend NIMASA ,the industry regulator seems to have suddenly recovered itself
. Dr Dakuku Peterside the Director General has proven to be a competent, knowledgeable and determined driver . NIMASA does all within its power to ensure total enforcement of international standards as enshrined in various IMO instruments
. NIMASA is also championing the creation of a critical mass of trained maritime professionals to take advantage of the global acute skill gap that will see to the creation of not less that forty million jobs around the world in the next five years in the industry.
A number of new stakeholder supported maritime education and training were laid out recently to see that Nigerians play a leading role as seafarers .
The NIMASA helmsman has adopted a number of local and international networking to solve complex problems, this has proven more than useful. His determination to fully implement the cabotage regime will see to the creation of at least ten thousand jobs in the next two years .
The promise to reengineer the Nigeria ship registry and make it more technologically driven will see to the explosion of Nigerian flagged vessels and respectability globally .
Connected to enhancing the reputation of Nigerian ship register is increased port state ( foreign vessels) and flag state ( Nigeria flagged vessels) control duties Dr Peterside seems to have deep passion to reposition the industry for accelerated growth and needs to be supported.
The effort by Federal Ministry of transportation and the industry regulator NIMASA will not pay off unless stakeholders both from the public and private sector play critical role in the change we are trying to implement.
Government should set the tone and the framework and allow stakeholders to implement and drive a new order . Nigeria is a maritime goldmine waiting to be harvested . Dr Ken Kirkbun is an IMO activist and researcher

Growing the maritime sector: Government-stakeholder model


Trail Work at Park City Mountain
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and United Park City Mines (UPCM) are working together to address several locations in Park City, including locations at Park City Mountain, where mining activities took place and deposited mine waste. The EPA and UPCM are installing erosion controls to address the migration of contaminated sediments and ensure environmental and recreationalist safety. While the EPA and UPCM are coordinating with Mountain Trails Foundation and Park City Mountain to keep all bike trails open, the groups will be temporarily diverting portions of one trail, Jenni’s Trail. The organizations regret any inconvenience and expect to complete work and remove this diversion by Oct. 1. The EPA’s goal is to protect the environment while keeping safety a priority.
PC MARC Dive-In Movie Night
The PC MARC presents “Finding Nemo” for this summer’s dive-in movie, a night of family fun in the pool on Saturday, Aug. 27. Open swim begins at 7:30 p.m. with the movie to follow at 8:30. The fee is $7 for adults, $3 for kids and $20 for a family of five or more. Personal floaties are welcome, but you must be a proficient swimmer to attend. For more info, call 435-615-5400 or visit ParkCityRecreation.org.
Adult Ballet
The PC MARC’s Adult Ballet classes, taught by Joanne Rupinskas, focus on traditional ballet technique while emphasizing correct posture and body alignment. Two fall sessions will be offered: Sept. 6 to Oct. 6; and Oct. 11 to Nov. 17. Classes are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The fee is $130 per session. Registration ends two days before classes start. For more info, visit ParkCityRecreation.org or call 435-615-5400.
Skateboard Series
Park City Recreation presents the 2016 Skateboard Series at 11 a.m. on Sept. 5 at the Park City Skate Park. Don’t miss this fun opportunity for friendly competition against other local skaters. Divisions include Beginner Street, Girls Street, Intermediate Street, Advanced Street, Beginner Bowl and Open Bowl. Pre-register at the PC MARC for $10 or register for $15 day-of at 10 a.m. Space is limited. For more info, visit ParkCityRecreation.org.
Youth Tennis Programs
The next session of Youth Tennis at the PC MARC will be held Aug. 29 to Oct. 12. Programs are available for kids of all ages and abilities. Days, times and fees vary depending on the class. Registration is now open. For more info and to register, visit ParkCityRecreation.org or call 435-615-5400.
Dog Obedience Classes at the PC MARC
Certified local dog trainer Heather Hampsten will teach Puppy and Basic obedience classes on Tuesday evenings, Aug. 30 to Oct. 4 at the PC MARC. Classes are for dogs ages 10 weeks and older, including newly adopted pets. Puppy class is at 6 p.m. and Basic follows at 7 p.m. The fee is $75. For info and to register, visit ParkCityRecreation.org or call 435-615-5400.
The Hiking Club
Basin Recreation has formed The Hiking Club for people interested in hiking with a group. This group meets at The Fieldhouse on Monday evenings at 6 p.m. and on Fridays at 9 a.m. Monday hikes will be on Basin Recreation’s local trail system, which is a great way to learn some new trails. Fridays are generally more mountainous, traveling to Sundance, the Uintas, Snowbird and Timpanogos for a variety of easy-to-moderate hikes. Just meet at The Fieldhouse and a van will drive to the trailhead. The cost is $5. Register online at BasinRecreation.org or call 435-655-0999. For more information, contact Patrick Saucier at patrick@basinrecreation.org.
Start Smart Soccer
PC Recreation’s Start Smart Soccer is an introductory program for children 3-5 years old. Learning skills and fun activities prepare children and their parents for the foundations of organized soccer. The sessions meet from Sept. 7 to Oct. 5 on Wednesdays at 4 p.m. Sessions last 45 minutes. For more info and to register, visit ParkCityRecreation.org or call 435-615-5400. The registration deadline is Sept. 1.
Fun Over Fifty: Fun. Social. Exercise.
Basin Recreation has new activities just for people over 50! Basin Recreation’s Fun Over Fifty category offers something for everyone 50-plus. Summer activities include weekly Hiking Club events, standup paddleboarding, drop-in pickleball, sailing, rafting/kayaking and over-the-hill mountain biking. These are great for beginners and anyone interested in group recreation. Stop by The Fieldhouse, visit BasinRecreation.org or contact patrick@basinrecreation.org to learn more about these programs.
Park City M.O.B. (Moms on Bikes)
Park City Recreation offers weekly mountain bike rides for moms, led by moms on Park City’s vast network of trails. Rides are held on Wednesdays until Sept. 14 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Email jmoran@parkcity.org to be added to the email list. Ride locations change each week.
Youth & Adult Karate
PC Recreation’s youth karate program teaches children ages 4 and up life lessons that build self-esteem, confidence, respect and fitness. Adults can also improve fitness, balance and coordination in the next session that will be held at the PC MARC Aug. 15 to Sept. 8. Days and times vary by levels. For more details and to register visit ParkCityRecreation.org or call 435-615-5400.
Playin’ the Basin Way
Basin Recreation is holding open field time for those in adaptive (physical, mental or other limitations) populations and their siblings. Sessions will be held Sept. 3, Oct. 8, Nov. 12 and Dec. 3. For more information, email Helaine O’Keefe at helaine@basinrecreation.org, visit BasinRecreation.org or call 435-655-0999.
Adult Lunch Bunch
Adult Lunch Bunch is held on Wednesdays at 12 p.m. at the Park City Ice Arena. This class is for the adult skater who wants to enjoy some social time on the ice with other adults, learn some new skills and get a great workout. Beginners and more advanced skaters are welcome to attend. Register today at ParkCityIce.org or call 435-615-5707.
Cardio Tennis Offerings at the PC MARC
Add an exciting new element to your workout by combining the cardio of tennis with the strength benefits of TRX. The PC MARC is offering both Cardio Tennis and Cardio TRX Tennis designed to improve fitness on and off the court. The high-energy, full-body workout is perfect, whether or not you are a tennis player! Classes are held Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. The class fee is $17 for those who pre-register and $20 per class for drop-ins. For more info, visit ParkCityRecreation.org or call 435-615-5400.
Park City Speed Skating Club
Come join the Park City Speed Skating Club for the new season. PCSSC is a skill-building, fitness-oriented club with an emphasis on fun. Basic skating skills are necessary and all ages are welcome. Practices will take place on Monday evenings from 6:15-8 p.m. and are coached by four-time Olympian Catherine Raney-Norman. The first visit is free so come take a lap with PCSSC. For more information, please visit ParkCitySpeedSkatingClub.blogspot.com.
A Minor Spin Class
Whether you’re a youth or just young at heart, the PC MARC has a new spin class just for you. Join Brooke on Sundays from 4:30-5:15 p.m. for a great workout and music at a decibel level young people can appreciate. Ages 13 and over are welcome. For more info, visit ParkCityRecreation.org or call 435-615-5400.
Pickleball at the PC MARC
PC Tennis invites those interested in racket sports to discover pickleball, the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. Head to the PC MARC for a variety of pickleball programming, including drop-in/social play, tournaments, clinics and drills. For more info and schedules, look for the Park City Pickleball Group on Meetup.com.


Man strips, drives pickup into Southwest plane in Nebraska
OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Authorities say a man wearing only boxer shorts stole a pickup and drove it into a Southwest Airlines plane at an airport in Omaha, Nebraska, causing minor injuries to three people on board.
Eppley Airfield Police Chief Tim Conahan says an officer spotted the man outside the terminal Thursday evening, screaming that people were trying to kill him. When officers approached, the man ran, climbed a fence into the gate area, undressed and stole an airline pickup. He drove into the plane, which was headed to Denver, as passengers were boarding.
The man is in custody, but has not yet been charged.


OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Authorities say a man wearing only boxer shorts stole a pickup and drove it into a Southwest Airlines plane at an airport in Omaha, Nebras...


Man strips, drives pickup into Southwest plane in Nebraska


FILE - This Aug. 20, 2013 file photo shows blood donated in Indianapolis. On Friday, Aug. 26, 2016, the Food and Drug Administration recommended that all U.S. blood banks start screening for the Zika virus, a major expansion intended to protect the nation's blood supply from the mosquito-borne disease. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Food and Drug Administration wants all U.S. blood centers to start screening for Zika, a major expansion intended to protect the nation's blood supply from the mosquito-borne virus.
Friday's advisory means all U.S. states and territories will need to begin testing blood donations for Zika. Previously, the FDA had limited the requirement to Puerto Rico and two Florida counties.
"There is still much uncertainty regarding the nature and extent of Zika virus transmission," said Dr. Peter Marks, director of the FDA's biologic products center, in an agency release. "At this time, the recommendation for testing the entire blood supply will help ensure that safe blood is available for all individuals who might need transfusion."
Blood collection sites already test donations for HIV, hepatitis, West Nile virus and other blood-borne viruses.
FDA officials said Zika testing is already underway in Puerto Rico and parts of Florida, where "it has shown to be beneficial in identifying donations infected with Zika virus."
The FDA has authorized use of two experimental blood-screening tests for Zika, one made by Roche and another from Hologic Inc. Several testing sites are already voluntarily using the technology, including blood centers in Texas. The cost of adding Zika testing to the blood screening process is less than $10, according to officials at South Texas Blood and Tissue Center.
Since February, U.S. blood centers have been turning away people who have recently traveled to areas with Zika outbreaks, under a previous FDA directive.
Zika is spread primarily by mosquito bites, as well as sex. There have been cases of Zika transmission through blood transfusion in Brazil.
The FDA works with other federal agencies to set standards for screening, testing and handling blood donations.
Last month, blood centers in Miami and Fort Lauderdale had to halt donations until they could begin screening each unit of blood. The order followed now-confirmed reports of local Zika transmission in the Miami area — the first in the continental U.S.
Puerto Rico suspended blood donations and imported blood products in March until the island began screening its blood.
Friday's announcement follows recent pressure from members of Congress urging the FDA to expand Zika screening.
"We must implement widespread universal screening now to prevent any further contamination of the blood supply before it occurs and to pre-empt a widespread shortfall in the blood supply," stated Reps. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, Patrick Murphy, D-Fla. and a half-dozen other House members, in a letter to the FDA earlier this month.
The Zika virus causes only a mild illness in most people, but scientists have confirmed that infection during pregnancy can lead to severe brain-related birth defects.
The tropical mosquito that spreads Zika and other viruses is found in the southern U.S. While health officials have predicted that mosquitoes in the continental U.S. would begin spreading Zika this summer, they also have said they expect only isolated clusters of infections and not widespread outbreaks. So far, there have been about 40 cases of homegrown Zika in Florida.

FDA expands Zika screening to all US blood centers


The Food and Drug Administration wants all U.S. blood centers to start screening for Zika, a major expansion intended to protect the nation's blood supply from the mosquito-borne virus. Friday's advisory ...


WASHINGTON -- The Food and Drug Administration wants all U.S. blood centers to start screening for Zika, a major expansion intended to protect the country's blood supply from the mosquito-borne virus.
Friday's advisory means all U.S. states and territories will need to begin testing blood donations for Zika. Previously, the FDA had limited the requirement to Puerto Rico and two Florida counties.
"There is still much uncertainty regarding the nature and extent of Zika virus transmission," said Dr. Peter Marks, director of the FDA's biologic products center, in an agency release. "At this time, the recommendation for testing the entire blood supply will help ensure that safe blood is available for all individuals who might need transfusion."
Blood collection sites already test donations for HIV, hepatitis, West Nile virus and other blood-borne viruses.
FDA officials said Zika testing is already underway in Puerto Rico and parts of Florida, where "it has shown to be beneficial in identifying donations infected with Zika virus."
The FDA has authorized use of two experimental blood-screening tests for Zika, one made by Roche and another from Hologic Inc. Several testing sites are already voluntarily using the technology, including blood centers in Texas.
The cost of adding Zika testing to the blood screening process is less than $10, according to officials at South Texas Blood and Tissue Center.
Since February, U.S. blood centers have been turning away people who have recently traveled to areas with Zika outbreaks, under a previous FDA directive.
Zika is spread primarily by mosquito bites, as well as sex. There have been cases of Zika transmission through blood transfusion in Brazil.
The FDA works with other federal agencies to set standards for screening, testing and handling blood donations.
Last month, blood centers in Miami and Fort Lauderdale had to halt donations until they could begin screening each unit of blood. The order followed now-confirmed reports of local Zika transmission in the Miami area — the first in the continental U.S.
Puerto Rico suspended blood donations and imported blood products in March until the island began screening its blood.
Friday's announcement follows recent pressure from members of Congress urging the FDA to expand Zika screening.
"We must implement widespread universal screening now to prevent any further contamination of the blood supply before it occurs and to pre-empt a widespread shortfall in the blood supply," stated Reps. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, Patrick Murphy, D-Fla. and a half-dozen other House members, in a letter to the FDA earlier this month.
The Zika virus causes only a mild illness in most people, but scientists have confirmed that infection during pregnancy can lead to severe brain-related birth defects.
The tropical mosquito that spreads Zika and other viruses is found in the southern U.S. While health officials have predicted that mosquitoes in the continental U.S. would begin spreading Zika this summer, they also have said they expect only isolated clusters of infections and not widespread outbreaks. So far, there have been about 40 cases of homegrown Zika in Florida.


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The Food and Drug Administration wants all U.S. blood centers to start screening for Zika, a major expansion intended to protect the nation's blood supply from the mosquito-borne virus.
Friday's advisory means all U.S. states and territories will need to begin testing blood donations for Zika. Previously, the FDA had limited the requirement to Puerto Rico and two Florida counties.
"There is still much uncertainty regarding the nature and extent of Zika virus transmission," said Dr. Peter Marks, director of the FDA's biologic products center, in an agency release. "At this time, the recommendation for testing the entire blood supply will help ensure that safe blood is available for all individuals who might need transfusion."
Blood collection sites already test donations for HIV, hepatitis, West Nile virus and other blood-borne viruses.
FDA officials said Zika testing is already underway in Puerto Rico and parts of Florida, where "it has shown to be beneficial in identifying donations infected with Zika virus."
The FDA has authorized use of two experimental blood-screening tests for Zika, one made by Roche and another from Hologic Inc. Several testing sites are already voluntarily using the technology, including blood centers in Texas. The cost of adding Zika testing to the blood screening process is less than $10, according to officials at South Texas Blood and Tissue Center.
Since February, U.S. blood centers have been turning away people who have recently traveled to areas with Zika outbreaks, under a previous FDA directive.
Zika is spread primarily by mosquito bites, as well as sex. There have been cases of Zika transmission through blood transfusion in Brazil.
The FDA works with other federal agencies to set standards for screening, testing and handling blood donations.
Last month, blood centers in Miami and Fort Lauderdale had to halt donations until they could begin screening each unit of blood. The order followed now-confirmed reports of local Zika transmission in the Miami area — the first in the continental U.S.
Puerto Rico suspended blood donations and imported blood products in March until the island began screening its blood.
Friday's announcement follows recent pressure from members of Congress urging the FDA to expand Zika screening.
"We must implement widespread universal screening now to prevent any further contamination of the blood supply before it occurs and to pre-empt a widespread shortfall in the blood supply," stated Reps. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, Patrick Murphy, D-Fla. and a half-dozen other House members, in a letter to the FDA earlier this month.
The Zika virus causes only a mild illness in most people, but scientists have confirmed that infection during pregnancy can lead to severe brain-related birth defects.
The tropical mosquito that spreads Zika and other viruses is found in the southern U.S. While health officials have predicted that mosquitoes in the continental U.S. would begin spreading Zika this summer, they also have said they expect only isolated clusters of infections and not widespread outbreaks. So far, there have been about 40 cases of homegrown Zika in Florida.
Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

FDA: All U.S. blood donations should get Zika screening


Seven Fylde coast libraries and 14 children’s centres have been earmarked for closure as Lancashire County Council bids to save £200m by 2020.
The bombshell recommendation were made in a 1,468-page document released by county officials at shortly before 8pm on the Friday before a Bank Holiday Weekend.
The Fylde centres earmarked for being sold off are:
Ansdell Library
Freckleton Library
Kirkham Library
Kirkham Young People’s Centre
Lower Lane Young People’s Centre
Lytham Children’s Centre
Lytham Library and Registration Office
Orchard Children’s Centre (Freckleton) (designated)
Pear Tree Children’s Centre (Kirkham) (designated)
And the Wyre centres earmarked for disposal are:
Cleveleys Library and Children’s Centre
Fleetwood Children’s Centre (designated)
Garstang Young People’s Centre
Northfleet Library
Over Wyre Children’s Centre (Hambleton satellite)
Over Wyre Children’s Centre (Preesall satellite)
Poulton-le-Fylde Children’s Centre
Preesall Young People’s Centre
Rural Wyre Children’s Centre (Garstang) (designated)
Thornton Library
Thornton Young People’s Centre
Thornton Youth Offending Team (Marsh Mill)
The county council’s cabinet will be asked to agree revised plans to save millions of pounds, by reducing the number of buildings the council owns and rents, after seeking people’s views during an extensive consultation.
Feedback from 7,700 responses has been taken into account in forming the proposals to bring services together to form a network of multi-functional buildings known as Neighbourhood Centres, which would provide a base for a range of different services in one place.
The plans, which form part of the council’s property strategy, propose changes to where some services including libraries, children’s services, children’s centres, young people’s centres, youth offending teams, older people’s daytime support services, adult disability day services and registrars are delivered in the future.
More than 100 buildings would no longer be used for county council services and the number of places at which some services are available would reduce.
The cabinet will also be asked to agree to explore proposals made by a number of community groups and other organisations to take on responsibility for running some of the affected buildings and services.
The changes are in response to Lancashire County Council’s need to save £200m by 2020/21 as a result of ongoing government cuts to its budget and rising demand for services.
The report to the council’s cabinet published late on Friday outlines changes to the original plans, following a 12-week consultation held from 18 May to 14 August, with a number of revisions to which buildings are being proposed to house future services.
County Coun David Borrow, deputy leader of Lancashire County Council and portfolio holder for finance, said: “We’d like to thank everyone who took the time to respond to the consultation – their feedback has been invaluable in helping to shape the final proposals and the Cabinet will be giving the report careful consideration.
“Our aim is to find a solution that still gives everyone in Lancashire good access to good services, despite the pressures on the council’s budget. We have done a lot of work to assess where services should be located in future, taking account of things such as geographic spread, accessibility and the needs of different communities. Some of the changes to the proposals reflect what people have told us about the way they access these services.
“We’re also keen to continue exploring the potential for other groups and organisations to take on responsibility for some of the affected buildings and services, so we’re grateful for the interest that has been shown in that possibility over the last few months. The report acknowledges that more work will be needed to assess the business cases that have been put forward.”
The report also asks councillors to agree plans to explore alternative options for the future delivery of library services, with a focus on examining whether community-run libraries could add to the statutory service provided by the county council.
A package of help is proposed to help establish any community-run library, including £5,000 to cover set-up costs, shelving, an initial supply of books from the county’s store, and advice from a dedicated community library development officer.

Libraries and children’s centres to close


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Margaret was a 1943 graduate of Virginia High School and Virginia Intermont College preparatory school. She received her AA degree from VIC and her BS degree from East Tennessee State University. She taught for 24 years in the Bristol, VA school system and served as president of the Bristol, VA Teachers Association. She has been a member of Central Presbyterian Church for over 50 years where she served as Deacon, Sunday school teacher, and Circle member. Margaret was a sustaining member of the Junior League of Bristol. Margaret enjoyed the company of family and friends as well as reading, music, history, bridge, and gardening.
She is survived by 3 children, 4 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. Children include Linda Olson and her husband David of Newport News, VA, Connie Bullock and her husband Scott of Piney Flats, TN, and Michael King of Charlottesville, VA. The grandchildren include Brittney Freeland of Weston, MA, Brant Bullock and his wife Shelly of Piney Flats, TN, Aaron Olson and his wife Lela of Richmond, VA, and Michael Olson of Newport News, VA. The great-grandchildren include Collin, Reid and Parker Freeland, Malachi and Axel Bullock and Luke Olson. She is also survived by several nieces and their families including Carol Garnett of Madison, VA, Patricia Amundsen of Mesa, AZ and Barbara Anders of Tucson, AZ.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, August 27, 2016 from 5:00 until 7:00 PM at Oakley-Cook Funeral Home in Bristol, TN. The Celebration of Life service will be conducted on Sunday, August 28, 2016 at 3:00 PM at Central Presbyterian Church in Bristol, VA with Dr. Frank Aichinger and the Rev. Ann Aichinger officiating. A graveside service will follow at 4:30 PM at New Bethel Presbyterian Church Cemetery in Piney Flats, TN.
Memorial contributions can be sent to Central Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund at 301 Euclid Ave., Bristol, VA 24201
The family would like to thank caregivers Barbara Gibson and Sue Smith and special staff at Brookdale for their compassionate care.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family and be viewed by visiting www.oakley-cook.com. Mrs. King and her family are in the care of Oakley-Cook Funeral Home & Crematory.


BRISTOL, VA - Margaret Bierbaum King, 90, of Bristol, VA, died Tuesday, August 23, 2016. She was born in Savanna, GA on January 14, 1926, to the late George Henry Bierbaum and Louise Berges


Jakarta, Indonesia (AP) — A would-be suicide bomber’s explosives failed to detonate in a packed church in western Indonesia during Sunday Mass, and he injured a priest with an axe before being restrained, police said.
The 18-year-old assailant left a bench and ran toward the priest at the altar, but a bomb in his backpack only burned without exploding, said national police spokesman Maj. Gen. Boy Rafli Amar.
Before he was restrained by members of the congregation, the man managed to take an axe from the backpack and attacked the Rev. Albert Pandiangan, causing a slight injury to the 60-year-old priest’s hand, Amar said.
The motive for the attack at the Roman Catholic St. Yoseph Church in Medan, the capital of North Sumatra province, was not clear, but the perpetrator carried a symbol indicating support for the Islamic State group.
Police were interrogating the man, who told them he was not working alone, Amar said, without providing details.
Indonesia, the world’s most populous Muslim nation, has carried out a sustained crackdown on militant networks since the 2002 Bali bombings that killed 202 people.

Would-be bomber's explosives fail in Indonesia church


Buyout firms' hushed deals with top investors risk US regulators' ire
By Koh Gui Qing
NEW YORK, Aug 30(Reuters) - Some U.S. private equity firms are courting their biggest and savviest investors with privileged access to special fee-saving deals without telling other investors, according to people involved in buyout firms' fundraising.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has signalled its interest in overseeing such deals after fining several private equity firms in recent months for improper disclosure of fees.
The so-called co-investments allow institutional investors such as pension funds and sovereign wealth funds to invest in target companies, both through the fund and directly without incurring some of the usual management and performance fees, which can translate into millions of dollars of savings.
Due to the big discount in fees, co-investments are popular among investors, and some buyout funds are giving their largest and most sophisticated investors a chance to participate in them before their peers without telling smaller investors about such arrangements.
However, keeping smaller investors in the dark about the way the deals are awarded risk scrutiny from the SEC, say private equity lawyers.
Any omission of "material facts" that may alter an investor's decision to invest in a fund violates rule "10b-5" of the Exchange Act, a person familiar with the SEC's thinking said. Information about the distribution of co-investment deals is likely to be considered "material", the person said.
Given the confidentiality of the arrangements, and the fact that some agreements are not even in writing, it is difficult for the SEC to spot infractions unless alerted by a whistleblower, the person said.
The SEC declined to comment for this story. Last year, however, the regulator called on the private equity industry to adopt a "robust and detailed" co-investment policy that is shared with all investors.
Palico, an online private equity fund marketplace, which has analyzed fundraising documentation, estimates that among 112 buyout firms that raised funds in 2015, only one in six fully disclosed co-investment terms to investors.
The people interviewed by Reuters declined to be identified or to name any of the private equity firms involved, citing confidentiality agreements.
They did identify, however, some of the investors that have benefited from these secretive arrangements. They include Singapore's sovereign wealth fund GIC and Canada's biggest public pension fund Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB).
When contacted by Reuters, the funds acknowledged that their size and expertise made them go-to partners for co-investments, but stressed they played by the book.
Michel Leduc, a senior managing director and global head of public affairs and communications at CPPIB, which manages $279 billion in assets, denied that CPPIB was involved in co-investments that were not fully disclosed to other investors. He said CPPIB, which had $275 million worth of co-investments, worked with funds that "demonstrated solid disclosure practices."
"We operate within intensely competitive markets and we are well aware that some institutions enjoy advantages," Leduc said.
Jennifer Lewis, a GIC spokeswoman, said the fund's size, reliability, global reach and expertise across asset classes have made it "a partner of choice" among funds for investments and co-investments.
"These qualities help us gain access to good investment opportunities globally," she said.
People involved in fundraising said some buyout firms do not disclose the preferential terms that big investors get to avoid putting off smaller ones who would like the same treatment.
Private equity firms say they tend to grant co-investment deals to bigger investors, in part because they want to work with experienced teams of managers who can quickly assess a prospective investment.
Lawyers familiar with the private equity industry said the SEC is not known to have brought a case against any fund in the past over co-investments.
Still, the stakes potentially are high for big investors. Private equity funds usually charge a management fee worth around 1.5 percent of total cash managed plus a performance fee of 20 percent of the profits generated. Those fees are waived in co-investments, documents published by private equity investors showed.
Returns on such deals have also outperformed investments in private equity funds in the past due to fee discounts, according to a survey by Preqin, a private equity data provider.


By Koh Gui Qing NEW YORK, Aug 30(Reuters) - Some U.S. private equity firms are courting their biggest and savviest investors with privileged access to specia...


Buyout firms' hushed deals with top investors risk US regulators' ire


Florida woman accused of killing husband in hospital bed
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) — A retired nurse from central Florida woman is facing a second-degree murder charge after authorities say she suffocated her husband in his hospital bed when he suffered life-threatening complications and became unresponsive following surgery.
Daytona Beach Police Chief Mike Chitwood told news outlets that Jan Sochalski, 61, of Palm Coast was arrested Monday following the May 19 death of Henry Sochalski, 64.
According to an arrest report, Jan Sochalski had been complaining about her husband's care after he went into respiratory and cardiac arrest April 9 after elective back surgery at Florida Hospital Memorial Medical Center in Daytona Beach.
The Daytona Beach News-Journal (http://bit.ly/2bG1Wth ) reports the retired Trenton, New Jersey, policeman, was unresponsive and placed in a unit that provides specialized medical care for people with serious illness.
Investigators noted in an arrest report that Jan Sochalski was so upset about her husband's treatment that on April 28, she threatened to go home and get his firearm and "shoot the people on the seventh floor" of the hospital. Police were called to the hospital that day, but a nurse calmed the woman down and she wasn't arrested.
A nurse told investigators that on one occasion, she had asked for medication to "decrease his respiratory status."
On May 19, a nurse told investigators she walked into the man's room and found his wife lying across his chest. According to the police report, the nurse said the woman had one hand around her husband's chest and the other across his mouth and nose. A second nurse in the room said it appeared she was "pinching the victim's nose."
He died about 30 minutes later.
Nurses called police, and an investigation began.
An initial autopsy was done May 20, but results weren't returned until Aug. 17.
Detective Dave Dinardi said Sochalski died of asphyxia of the mouth, nose and trachea.
On Monday, Jan Sochalski denied killing her husband, Dinardi said. She was arrested and is being held without bail at the Volusia County Jail. Jail records don't list an attorney for her.
___


DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) — A retired nurse from central Florida woman is facing a second-degree murder charge after authorities say she suffocated her husban...


Florida woman accused of killing husband in hospital bed