Teen Vogue magazine is pushing the idea that prostitution is acceptable to its young readers and should be decriminalized, the Christian Post website reports today (April 30, 2019).
Tlaleng Mofokeng, a medical doctor, wrote an article in the magazine titled "Why Sex Is Real Work," in which she says "Sex-worker services between consenting adults may include companionship, intimacy, nonsexual role playing, dancing, escorting, and stripping. These roles are often pre-determined, and all parties should be comfortable with them," she explained.
Mofokeng then compared experiences of prostitutes with her own profession as a doctor.
"I exchange payment in the form of money with people to provide them with advice and treatment for sex-related problems; therapy for sexual performance, counseling and therapy for relationship problems, and treatment of sexually transmitted infection. Isn't this basically sex work?" she asked.
Tuesday, April 30, 2019
Monday, April 29, 2019
Penn. School Stops Stating "God Bless America;" Due to Parent Complaint That Phrase Is Unconst.
A Pennsylvania school stopped saying "God Bless America" over the loudspeaker after a parent complained and an organization of atheists got involved, the Christian Headlines website reports today (April 29, 2019).
Sabold Elementary School in Springfield, Penn. had a custom of allowing users of the loudspeaker to say "God Bless America" after the morning Pledge of Allegiance.
The Freedom From Religion Foundation, acting on a complaint from a parent, wrote the superintendent March 25 and argued that the action was unconstitutional.
Consequently, the school ended the practice.
Sabold Elementary School in Springfield, Penn. had a custom of allowing users of the loudspeaker to say "God Bless America" after the morning Pledge of Allegiance.
The Freedom From Religion Foundation, acting on a complaint from a parent, wrote the superintendent March 25 and argued that the action was unconstitutional.
Consequently, the school ended the practice.
NY Times Apologizes for Anti-Semitic Pol.Cartoon; Had Israeli PM as a Dog with Star of David Collar
After widespread condemnation, the New York Times apologized for publishing an "anti-Semitic political cartoon," the JTA (Jewish Telegraphic Agency) website reports today (April 29, 2019).
The cartoon, which appeared on April 25 in the newspaper, depicted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a dachshund-breed guide dog wearing a Star of David collar and leading a yarmulke-clad President Donald Trump.
After a wave of outrage, the Times issued a statement on April 27 acknowledging the image was "offensive," but stopped short of apologizing.
In its second statement, issued yesterday, the Times said it was "deeply sorry" for publishing the cartoon.
The cartoon, which appeared on April 25 in the newspaper, depicted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a dachshund-breed guide dog wearing a Star of David collar and leading a yarmulke-clad President Donald Trump.
After a wave of outrage, the Times issued a statement on April 27 acknowledging the image was "offensive," but stopped short of apologizing.
In its second statement, issued yesterday, the Times said it was "deeply sorry" for publishing the cartoon.
Sunday, April 28, 2019
Pope Donates $500,000 to US Border Migrants; Will Provide Food,Lodging to Migrants in Mexico
The Vatican said yesterday that Pope Francis donated $500,000 to Mexico-based projects to help migrant communities, the Yahoo website reports today (April 28, 2019).
The funds will be distributed between 27 projects associated with 16 Mexican dioceses and congregations, all of which asked for help to continue providing food, lodging, and basic necessities to those fleeing their home countries through Mexico.
In recent months, thousands of migrants have arrived in Mexico, having traveled more than 4,000 miles on foot and with makeshift vehicles from Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala.
The money is specifically meant to aid the 75,000 migrants who arrived in Mexico in 2018 as part of six caravans.
The funds will be distributed between 27 projects associated with 16 Mexican dioceses and congregations, all of which asked for help to continue providing food, lodging, and basic necessities to those fleeing their home countries through Mexico.
In recent months, thousands of migrants have arrived in Mexico, having traveled more than 4,000 miles on foot and with makeshift vehicles from Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala.
The money is specifically meant to aid the 75,000 migrants who arrived in Mexico in 2018 as part of six caravans.
Saturday, April 27, 2019
Shooter Kills 1, Wounds 3 in Calif. Synagogue; Occurred on Last Day of Passover in San Diego
A woman was fatally shot and three others were injured today (April 27, 2019) in a shooting during a Passover celebration at a San Diego synagogue, according to the ABC News website.
The shooting, apparently an anti-Semitic act, happened about 11:30 a.m. local time at the Chabad of Poway synagogue.
The male suspect -- a white 19-year-old San Diego resident -- fired more than 10 rounds before fleeing the synagogue. The three injured victims are in stable condition at a hospital.
The suspect was taken into custody after a K-9 officer saw him driving a car on the freeway. The suspect jumped out of his car and put his hands up, San Diego Police Chief David Nisleit said.
The shooting, apparently an anti-Semitic act, happened about 11:30 a.m. local time at the Chabad of Poway synagogue.
The male suspect -- a white 19-year-old San Diego resident -- fired more than 10 rounds before fleeing the synagogue. The three injured victims are in stable condition at a hospital.
The suspect was taken into custody after a K-9 officer saw him driving a car on the freeway. The suspect jumped out of his car and put his hands up, San Diego Police Chief David Nisleit said.
Friday, April 26, 2019
Americans Observing Raging Socialist Movement; Most Democrats Prefer Socialism Over Capitalism
Americans are now witnessing a raging socialist movement pervading the U.S., the Newsmax website reports today (April 26, 2019).
For example, U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont -- a leading Democrat for U.S. president in 2020 and a socialist -- has already received several million dollars more toward his campaign than any other Democratic candidate.
Also, U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York -- America's new outspoken political star -- is pushing for free medical care, free college, and 70% tax rates.
And a recent Gallup poll found that more Democrats now have a "positive view" of socialism (57%) than capitalism (47%).
For example, U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont -- a leading Democrat for U.S. president in 2020 and a socialist -- has already received several million dollars more toward his campaign than any other Democratic candidate.
Also, U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York -- America's new outspoken political star -- is pushing for free medical care, free college, and 70% tax rates.
And a recent Gallup poll found that more Democrats now have a "positive view" of socialism (57%) than capitalism (47%).
Thursday, April 25, 2019
Loughlin: "I Didn't Know What I Did Was Illegal;" Paid $500,000 Bribe to Get 2 Daughters into USC
Actress Lori Loughlin and her husband, Mossimo Giannulli, who stand accused of paying a $500,000 bribe to get their two daughters into the University of Southern California (USC) as crew recruits, claim they didn't realize what they were doing was illegal, the Daily Beast website reports today (April 25, 2019).
Loughlin and Giannulli were indicted in March as part of a sweeping college admissions scandal, in which 50 parents were accused of bribing a consultant to help cheat their kids' way into top-tier schools.
They said they gave the money to this consultant, not entirely knowing everything that was going to be done.
Loughlin and Giannulli both pleaded not guilty to charges of mail fraud and money laundering, and could face decades in prison if convicted.
Loughlin and Giannulli were indicted in March as part of a sweeping college admissions scandal, in which 50 parents were accused of bribing a consultant to help cheat their kids' way into top-tier schools.
They said they gave the money to this consultant, not entirely knowing everything that was going to be done.
Loughlin and Giannulli both pleaded not guilty to charges of mail fraud and money laundering, and could face decades in prison if convicted.
Duke Divinity Lesbian Uncertain about Future; United Methodist Church Will Not Ordain Gays
Spencer Cullom, 29, will be graduating from Duke University Divinity School next month, but she will not be allowed to become ordained in the United Methodist Church -- as she had hoped to do -- because she is a lesbian, the Religion News website reports today (April 25, 2015).
The United Methodist Book of Discipline bars "self-avowed practicing homosexuals" from being ordained.
It also calls the "practice of homosexuality... incompatible with Christian teaching."
Unfortunately, Cullom -- a life-long United Methodist Church worshipper -- refuses to change her lesbian lifestyle, and the United Methodist Church refuses to ordain homosexuals; consequently, Cullom is not sure of what path her career will take after she graduates from Duke Divinity School next month.
The United Methodist Book of Discipline bars "self-avowed practicing homosexuals" from being ordained.
It also calls the "practice of homosexuality... incompatible with Christian teaching."
Unfortunately, Cullom -- a life-long United Methodist Church worshipper -- refuses to change her lesbian lifestyle, and the United Methodist Church refuses to ordain homosexuals; consequently, Cullom is not sure of what path her career will take after she graduates from Duke Divinity School next month.
Wednesday, April 24, 2019
Some 8K Boy Scout Leaders Accused of Sex Abuse; More Than 12K Victims Abused from 1944 to 2016
The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) believes more than 7,800 of its former leaders were involved in sexually abusing children over the course of 72 years, according to newly exposed court testimony, the CNN website reports today (April 24, 2019).
The Boys Scouts identified more than 12,000 alleged victims in that time period from 1944 through 2016, according to the testimony, which was published yesterday by Atty. Jeff Anderson, who specializes in representing sexual abuse victims.
The numbers, Anderson said, come from what the BSA calls its volunteer screening database -- a list of volunteers and others that the Boy Scouts removed and banned from its organization over accusations of policy violations, including allegations of sexual abuse.
The 7,800 includes scout leaders and masters across the country accused of sexually assaulting "children under their charge," Anderson said yesterday at a news conference in New York.
The Boys Scouts identified more than 12,000 alleged victims in that time period from 1944 through 2016, according to the testimony, which was published yesterday by Atty. Jeff Anderson, who specializes in representing sexual abuse victims.
The numbers, Anderson said, come from what the BSA calls its volunteer screening database -- a list of volunteers and others that the Boy Scouts removed and banned from its organization over accusations of policy violations, including allegations of sexual abuse.
The 7,800 includes scout leaders and masters across the country accused of sexually assaulting "children under their charge," Anderson said yesterday at a news conference in New York.
Portland Church Building 15 Homes for Homeless; Small Homes Located on Church's Oregon Campus
A church in Portland, Oregon is building 15 tiny homes on its 11-acre property as a tangible way to lift up the homeless in the immediate community and help put them on a path toward self-empowerment, the Christian Post website reports today (April 24, 2019).
Central Church of the Nazarene in Southeast Portland will officially open Agape Village this summer.
The village is a nonprofit faith-based initiative designed to provide substantive response in a community that is largely under-resourced when it comes to providing safe places for the homeless community.
"It started with the church's desire to more effectively love God and love our neighbor," Pastor Matt Huff told The Christian Post.
Central Church of the Nazarene in Southeast Portland will officially open Agape Village this summer.
The village is a nonprofit faith-based initiative designed to provide substantive response in a community that is largely under-resourced when it comes to providing safe places for the homeless community.
"It started with the church's desire to more effectively love God and love our neighbor," Pastor Matt Huff told The Christian Post.
Tuesday, April 23, 2019
Israel to Name Golan Heights Town after Trump; Trump Recognized It as Israel's Land, Not Syria's
Israel said today (April 23, 2019) it will name a new community on the Golan Heights after U.S. president Donald Trump, as an expression of gratitude for his recognition of its claim of sovereignty over the strategic plateau, according to the Yahoo website.
Israel captured the Golan Heights from Syria in a 1967 war and annexed it, in a move not recognized internationally. Syria still claims the Golan Heights to be its land.
The U.S. broke with the other nations of the world last month when Trump signed a decree recognizing Israeli sovereignty of Golan.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said today that after the Jewish Passover festival, he would "bring to the government a resolution calling for a new community on the Golan Heights named after President Donald J. Trump."
Israel captured the Golan Heights from Syria in a 1967 war and annexed it, in a move not recognized internationally. Syria still claims the Golan Heights to be its land.
The U.S. broke with the other nations of the world last month when Trump signed a decree recognizing Israeli sovereignty of Golan.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said today that after the Jewish Passover festival, he would "bring to the government a resolution calling for a new community on the Golan Heights named after President Donald J. Trump."
Wisc.Woman Taught Bomb-Making on Internet; Done in Order to Assist IS in Terrorist Activities
Prosecutors said yesterday that a Wisconsin woman used hacked Facebook accounts to provide lessons in making bombs and poison in behalf of the Islamic State (IS) terrorist group, the Reuters website reports today (April 23, 2019).
Waheba Issa Dais, 46, of Cudahy, Wisconsin, pleaded guilty to one count of "attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization," the U.S. Attorney's Office of the Eastern District of Wisconsin said in a release.
Her support in 2018 took the form of providing expert advice on the Internet on bombs and biological weapons in order to help ISIS, officials said.
"Remember Boston Marathon bombing?" prosecutors said she posted to an undercover F.B.I. agent on Facebook. "It was very easy to make. All it needs is a pressure cooker, shrapnel and explosives. Join my channel and research."
Waheba Issa Dais, 46, of Cudahy, Wisconsin, pleaded guilty to one count of "attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization," the U.S. Attorney's Office of the Eastern District of Wisconsin said in a release.
Her support in 2018 took the form of providing expert advice on the Internet on bombs and biological weapons in order to help ISIS, officials said.
"Remember Boston Marathon bombing?" prosecutors said she posted to an undercover F.B.I. agent on Facebook. "It was very easy to make. All it needs is a pressure cooker, shrapnel and explosives. Join my channel and research."
Monday, April 22, 2019
Gallup:US Church Membership Hits Record Low; Only 50% of Americans Now Belong to a Church
A new Gallup poll released on April 18 shows that the percentage of Americans, who say they belong to a church, synagogue, or mosque has reached a historic low, the Christian Post website reports today (April 22, 2019).
The new report, analyzing religious membership of Americans, found that an average of 50 percent of Americans in 2018 said they are members of a church or other religious institution.
This represents a 20-percentage-point decline in church membership over the past 20 years, and the lowest it has been since Gallup began polling the question in 1937.
Previously, church membership reported being at least 70 percent or more from the years 1937 through 1976.
The new report, analyzing religious membership of Americans, found that an average of 50 percent of Americans in 2018 said they are members of a church or other religious institution.
This represents a 20-percentage-point decline in church membership over the past 20 years, and the lowest it has been since Gallup began polling the question in 1937.
Previously, church membership reported being at least 70 percent or more from the years 1937 through 1976.
Women Watered Like Plants in Easter Tradition; Drenched with Buckets of Water in Fertility Rite
Girls and young women have been drenched with buckets of water as part of an ancient Easter tradition in Hungary, the Euro News website reports today (April 22, 2019).
The so-called "watering" of the women on Easter Monday is an old fertility rite that dates back to pre-Christian times.
Visitors watched volunteers get soaked at an open-air folk culture museum in Szentendre, just north of the Hungarian capital of Budapest today.
Young men pour water on unmarried women in order to keep them healthy and fertile, and to ensure that they do not "wilt," so the tradition goes.
The so-called "watering" of the women on Easter Monday is an old fertility rite that dates back to pre-Christian times.
Visitors watched volunteers get soaked at an open-air folk culture museum in Szentendre, just north of the Hungarian capital of Budapest today.
Young men pour water on unmarried women in order to keep them healthy and fertile, and to ensure that they do not "wilt," so the tradition goes.
Sunday, April 21, 2019
Ukrainian Comedian Elected Nation's President; Volodymyr Zelensky Overtakes Petro Poroshenko
Fed up with the status quo that has pervaded the country for the past few years, Ukrainians today (April 21, 2019) elected a Ukrainian comedian, who plays a fictional president in a popular TV show, as the country's next president after a national exit poll showed Volodymyr Zelensky winning a landslide victory in the presidential race, according to the Euro News website.
Zelensky, who has no previous experience in politics and is Jewish, has won 73% of the vote, surpassing his rival, incumbent Petro Poroshenko, who won just 25% of the vote.
Poroshenko has admitted defeat, and said he would step down as president this month, but planned to remain in politics.
Zelensky told a crowd of supporters today "we did it together... I just want to say thank you."
Zelensky, who has no previous experience in politics and is Jewish, has won 73% of the vote, surpassing his rival, incumbent Petro Poroshenko, who won just 25% of the vote.
Poroshenko has admitted defeat, and said he would step down as president this month, but planned to remain in politics.
Zelensky told a crowd of supporters today "we did it together... I just want to say thank you."
Indian Intel:Sri Lanka Attack Committed by IS; Easter Attacks Killed 215 People, Wounded 450
Intelligence sources in India claimed the terror attacks today (April 21, 2019) in Sri Lanka -- an island country south of India -- in which 215 people were murdered and 450 wounded, were marked by the pattern of action typical of the Islamic State (IS), the Jewish Press website reports.
The first wave of attacks struck at the heart of the country's minority Christian community this morning, during the busy Easter services at the churches in the cities of Colombo, Negombo, and Batticaloa. Three churches and three hotels were targeted at the same time with almost simultaneous blasts.
Additional blasts ripped through three high-end hotels, the Shangri La, Cinnamon Grand, and Kingsbury, all in the capital city of Colombo. Buddhism is the predominant religion of Sri Lanka, followed by Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity respectively.
The High Commissioner of Sri Lanka said: "This is an attack against the whole of Sri Lanka because Sri Lanka is [a] multi-ethnic, multi-religious and multi-cultural country and the whole country comes together in celebration of Easter Sunday."
The first wave of attacks struck at the heart of the country's minority Christian community this morning, during the busy Easter services at the churches in the cities of Colombo, Negombo, and Batticaloa. Three churches and three hotels were targeted at the same time with almost simultaneous blasts.
Additional blasts ripped through three high-end hotels, the Shangri La, Cinnamon Grand, and Kingsbury, all in the capital city of Colombo. Buddhism is the predominant religion of Sri Lanka, followed by Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity respectively.
The High Commissioner of Sri Lanka said: "This is an attack against the whole of Sri Lanka because Sri Lanka is [a] multi-ethnic, multi-religious and multi-cultural country and the whole country comes together in celebration of Easter Sunday."
Saturday, April 20, 2019
Russian Yeshiva Attacked with Arson,Swastikas; Occurs Just Ahead of Passover Meal Celebration
Jewish officials said an arson fire was set yesterday at the largest yeshiva in Russia just ahead of the Passover meal celebration, the Times of Israel website reports today (April 20, 2019).
No one was injured in the fire at the Torat Chaim school in an eastern Moscow suburb.
Swastikas were also sprayed on the seminar.
Olga Esaulova, a spokeswoman for Moscow's chief rabbi, said the fire was set in a storage area for kosher meat and that swastikas were drawn at the yeshiva's entrance.
No one was injured in the fire at the Torat Chaim school in an eastern Moscow suburb.
Swastikas were also sprayed on the seminar.
Olga Esaulova, a spokeswoman for Moscow's chief rabbi, said the fire was set in a storage area for kosher meat and that swastikas were drawn at the yeshiva's entrance.
Thursday, April 18, 2019
Woman Charged with Giving Birth to Drunk Baby; Mother in Lithuania Was Intoxicated during Birth
A 35-year-old woman in Lithuania is facing charges after giving birth to a baby girl with enough alcohol in its system to seriously affect its health, the Euro News website reports today (April 18, 2019).
The mother, who doctors say was intoxicated during birth, had been drinking at home, but she was unable to tell them how much she had drunk.
Neonatologist Natalia Grigorieva said the baby girl weighed in at 5.5 pounds and looked fine, but she added: "It's hard to say what will happen next."
The mother is reported to be "stable" but the baby may have to stay in the hospital for some time; it can take weeks for alcohol to leave the system of a newborn.
The mother, who doctors say was intoxicated during birth, had been drinking at home, but she was unable to tell them how much she had drunk.
Neonatologist Natalia Grigorieva said the baby girl weighed in at 5.5 pounds and looked fine, but she added: "It's hard to say what will happen next."
The mother is reported to be "stable" but the baby may have to stay in the hospital for some time; it can take weeks for alcohol to leave the system of a newborn.
Man Nabbed Outside St. Pat's Cathedral in NY; Holding Gallons of Gas, Lighter Fluid, Lighters
A man is in custody after he tried to enter St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City last night with gallons of gasoline, lighter fluid, and lighters, the CNN website reports today (April 18, 2019).
When a security officer at the cathedral stopped the 37-year-old man , he left the church and was detained shortly afterward by counterterrorism officers, NYPD's John Miller said at a news conference.
The man, who is from New Jersey and is known to police, spilled some of the gasoline as the security officer stopped him in the church and forced him to turn around, Miller said. Police did not release the man's name; however, a family member identified him as Marc Lamparello of Hasbrouck Heights, NJ.
"It's hard to say exactly what his intentions were but I think the totality of circumstances of an individual walking into an iconic location like St. Patrick's Cathedral, carrying over four gallons of gasoline, two bottles of lighter fluid, and lighters is something we would have great concern over," Miller said.
When a security officer at the cathedral stopped the 37-year-old man , he left the church and was detained shortly afterward by counterterrorism officers, NYPD's John Miller said at a news conference.
The man, who is from New Jersey and is known to police, spilled some of the gasoline as the security officer stopped him in the church and forced him to turn around, Miller said. Police did not release the man's name; however, a family member identified him as Marc Lamparello of Hasbrouck Heights, NJ.
"It's hard to say exactly what his intentions were but I think the totality of circumstances of an individual walking into an iconic location like St. Patrick's Cathedral, carrying over four gallons of gasoline, two bottles of lighter fluid, and lighters is something we would have great concern over," Miller said.
Wednesday, April 17, 2019
Doctors,Pharmacists Nabbed in Px Pain Pill Bust; Some OKd Drugs for Sex to Justify Prescriptions
Federal prosecutors charged 60 physicians and pharmacists yesterday with illegally handing out opioid prescriptions in what they say is the biggest crackdown of its kind in U.S. history, the Yahoo website reports today (April 17, 2019).
Some of the doctors are accused of trading drugs for sex, giving prescriptions to Facebook friends without proper medical exams, and unnecessarily pulling teeth to justify writing pain pill prescriptions.
The list of indicted medical professionals includes podiatrists, orthopedic specialists, dentists, general practitioners , and nurse practitioners.
Prosecutors said people addicted to pain medication received dangerous amounts of opioids, including oxycodone, methadone, and morphine.
Some of the doctors are accused of trading drugs for sex, giving prescriptions to Facebook friends without proper medical exams, and unnecessarily pulling teeth to justify writing pain pill prescriptions.
The list of indicted medical professionals includes podiatrists, orthopedic specialists, dentists, general practitioners , and nurse practitioners.
Prosecutors said people addicted to pain medication received dangerous amounts of opioids, including oxycodone, methadone, and morphine.
Tuesday, April 16, 2019
Billionaires Pledge $500M for Notre Dame; France to Rebuild Its Key Heritage Symbol
The LVMH Group, which owns luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, and Givenchy and is led by France's richest man, Bernard Arnault, pledged 200 million euros ($226 million) today (April 16, 2019) to help rebuild the Notre Dame Cathedral hours after a tragic fire ripped the iconic church, according to the Christian Post website.
"The Arnault family and the LVMH Group, in solidarity with this national tragedy, are committed to assist with the reconstruction of this extraordinary cathedral, symbol of France, its heritage and its unity. They will donate a total sum of 200 million euros to the fund..." the company announced today.
Francois-Henri Pinault, chairman and chief executive officer of Gucci owner Kering SA and husband of Hollywood actress Selma Hayek, pledged 100 million euros ($113 million) yesterday after President Emmanuel Macron launched an appeal to rebuild the cathedral.
As rebuilding efforts for the more than 850-year-old church advanced today, condolences continued to flow from around the world for the people of France, including one from Queen Elizabeth of England.
"The Arnault family and the LVMH Group, in solidarity with this national tragedy, are committed to assist with the reconstruction of this extraordinary cathedral, symbol of France, its heritage and its unity. They will donate a total sum of 200 million euros to the fund..." the company announced today.
Francois-Henri Pinault, chairman and chief executive officer of Gucci owner Kering SA and husband of Hollywood actress Selma Hayek, pledged 100 million euros ($113 million) yesterday after President Emmanuel Macron launched an appeal to rebuild the cathedral.
As rebuilding efforts for the more than 850-year-old church advanced today, condolences continued to flow from around the world for the people of France, including one from Queen Elizabeth of England.
Monday, April 15, 2019
Huge Fire Engulfs Paris' Notre-Dame Cathedral; Blaze Could Be Linked to Ongoing Renovations
A huge fire swept through the roof of the famed Notre-Dame Cathedral in central Paris today (April 15, 2019) sending flames and huge clouds of grey smoke billowing into the sky, according to the AFP (Agence France-Presse) website.
The flames and smoke plumed from the spire and roof of the gothic cathedral, visited by millions of people each year. Later, the flames caused the spire to collapse.
A spokesman for the cathedral said the wooden structure supporting the roof was being gutted by the blaze. The fire is believed to have begun in the cathedral attic.
The fire service said the blaze could be "potentially linked" to ongoing renovations at the cathedral.
The flames and smoke plumed from the spire and roof of the gothic cathedral, visited by millions of people each year. Later, the flames caused the spire to collapse.
A spokesman for the cathedral said the wooden structure supporting the roof was being gutted by the blaze. The fire is believed to have begun in the cathedral attic.
The fire service said the blaze could be "potentially linked" to ongoing renovations at the cathedral.
Sunday, April 14, 2019
Fordham Student Dies from Clock Tower Fall; Trips While Walking Up Stairs, Falls 40 Feet
A Fordham University student died today (April 14, 2019), after she fell from the Bronx school's iconic clock tower while climbing to the top to take pictures of the city skyline, according to the NY Daily News website.
The victim, 22-year-old Sydney Monfries, was walking up the stairs inside the Keating Hall tower with a group of fellow seniors when she tripped on a landing and fell 40 feet through an opening in the stairs.
Fordham President Joseph McShane announced via text that Monfries would receive her bachelor's degree posthumously, which will be presented to her parents.
Paramedics were able to revive the Portland, Oregon native after she suffered a traumatic cardiac arrest, but she died of her injuries shortly thereafter.
The victim, 22-year-old Sydney Monfries, was walking up the stairs inside the Keating Hall tower with a group of fellow seniors when she tripped on a landing and fell 40 feet through an opening in the stairs.
Fordham President Joseph McShane announced via text that Monfries would receive her bachelor's degree posthumously, which will be presented to her parents.
Paramedics were able to revive the Portland, Oregon native after she suffered a traumatic cardiac arrest, but she died of her injuries shortly thereafter.
Saturday, April 13, 2019
Israeli Airstrikes Hit Syrian Military Facilities; Strikes Kill or Wound Syrian Soldiers, Iranians
The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said today (April 13, 2019) that Israeli airstrikes hit three targets in Syria, wounding 17 Syrian soldiers, according to the World Israel News website.
It said there were also deaths, but it was not immediately clear how many were killed and how many were Iranians.
It added that the strikes targeted military facilities as well as a missile development center in a village near Masyaf and a nearby military base run by Iran-backed fighters.
Iran is a close ally of brutal Syrian dictator Bashar Assad and has sent thousands of fighters from across the region to help his forces in the ongoing eight-year bloody civil war that has torn Syria apart.
It said there were also deaths, but it was not immediately clear how many were killed and how many were Iranians.
It added that the strikes targeted military facilities as well as a missile development center in a village near Masyaf and a nearby military base run by Iran-backed fighters.
Iran is a close ally of brutal Syrian dictator Bashar Assad and has sent thousands of fighters from across the region to help his forces in the ongoing eight-year bloody civil war that has torn Syria apart.
Survey:"No Religion" Americans Top Any Rel.; More Non-Rel. in US Than Cath., Evangelicals
For the first time, "No Religion" has topped a survey of American religious identity, the CNN website reports today (April 13, 2019).
The non-religious edged out Catholics and evangelicals in the long-running General Social Survey.
Ryan Burge, a political scientist at Eastern Illinois University and a Baptist pastor, found that 23.1% of Americans now claim no religion.
Catholics came in at 23.0%, while evangelicals were at 22.5%. Over 2,000 people were interviewed in person for the survey.
The non-religious edged out Catholics and evangelicals in the long-running General Social Survey.
Ryan Burge, a political scientist at Eastern Illinois University and a Baptist pastor, found that 23.1% of Americans now claim no religion.
Catholics came in at 23.0%, while evangelicals were at 22.5%. Over 2,000 people were interviewed in person for the survey.
Friday, April 12, 2019
Ohio Passes Law Prohibiting Heartbeat Abortions; Heartbeats Can Be Heard 6 Weeks into Pregnancy
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has signed a bill into law that prohibits abortion for unborn babies that have a detectable heartbeat, which can be found as early as six weeks into a pregnancy, the Christian Post website reports today (April 12, 2019).
"The essential function of government is to protect the most vulnerable among us -- those who do not have a voice," DeWine said before signing Senate Bill 23, or the Ohio Human Rights and Heartbeat Protection Act, into law yesterday afternoon.
"Government's role should be to protect life from the beginning to the end, to protect those who cannot protect themselves, such as the elderly, the unborn, those who are sick, those who have a disability, those who have a mental illness, or an addiction."
Ohio's new law passed 56-40 in the House and 18-13 in the Senate.
"The essential function of government is to protect the most vulnerable among us -- those who do not have a voice," DeWine said before signing Senate Bill 23, or the Ohio Human Rights and Heartbeat Protection Act, into law yesterday afternoon.
"Government's role should be to protect life from the beginning to the end, to protect those who cannot protect themselves, such as the elderly, the unborn, those who are sick, those who have a disability, those who have a mental illness, or an addiction."
Ohio's new law passed 56-40 in the House and 18-13 in the Senate.
People's Worst Fear Is Lack of Retirement Funds; May Be Forced to Work Until They No Longer Can
The biggest fear of most Americans is not death, but rather not saving enough money for retirement, the Motley Fool website reports today (April 12, 2019).
A survey from financial institution Primerica found that 43% of Americans share that nightmare, while only 25% said their biggest fear is death.
Indeed, not saving enough for retirement can become a nightmare. If you reach retirement age with little or nothing saved, you will likely be forced to work until you can't work anymore.
From there, you will have to survive with whatever you do have saved, and when that runs out, you will probably end up depending on Social Security benefits to make ends meet.
A survey from financial institution Primerica found that 43% of Americans share that nightmare, while only 25% said their biggest fear is death.
Indeed, not saving enough for retirement can become a nightmare. If you reach retirement age with little or nothing saved, you will likely be forced to work until you can't work anymore.
From there, you will have to survive with whatever you do have saved, and when that runs out, you will probably end up depending on Social Security benefits to make ends meet.
Thursday, April 11, 2019
TX Women Having Abortions Face Death Penalty; Bill Designed to Protect the Life of Unborn Child
Women who have abortions could be charged with homicide and face the death penalty in a new bill being proposed in Texas, the Mirror (British) website reports today (April 11, 2019).
The "Abolition of Abortion in Texas Act," introduced by Republican Rep. Tony Tinderholt in January, is to "protect the rights of an unborn child."
Nearly 500 people testified in support of the legislation, while 54 people testified against it.
The proposed bill would ban abortion at any stage of pregnancy and would criminalize women who have abortions as well as physicians who perform them.
The "Abolition of Abortion in Texas Act," introduced by Republican Rep. Tony Tinderholt in January, is to "protect the rights of an unborn child."
Nearly 500 people testified in support of the legislation, while 54 people testified against it.
The proposed bill would ban abortion at any stage of pregnancy and would criminalize women who have abortions as well as physicians who perform them.
WikiLeaks Fugitive Assange Arrested in London; Sought by US for Releasing Classified Documents
WikiLeaks co-founder Julian Assange has been arrested at the Ecuador embassy in London, ending his seven-year asylum spell there , the Euro News website reports today (April 11, 2019).
He appeared today at Westminster Magistrates Court, where he was found guilty of skipping bail. He will be sentenced at a later date.
Assange was dragged out of the embassy by police yesterday after an extradition request by the U.S.
He is wanted in the U.S. over an investigation into WikiLeaks' release of classified documents concerning the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
He appeared today at Westminster Magistrates Court, where he was found guilty of skipping bail. He will be sentenced at a later date.
Assange was dragged out of the embassy by police yesterday after an extradition request by the U.S.
He is wanted in the U.S. over an investigation into WikiLeaks' release of classified documents concerning the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Wednesday, April 10, 2019
Netanyahu Re-elected Prime Minister of Israel; Thanks US for "Tremendous Support for Israel"
Despite being indicted recently on corruption and bribery charges, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was re-elected to a fifth term today (April 10, 2019), according to the Reuters website.
With 99 percent of the votes counted, Netanyahu's conservative Likud party appeared to muster enough support to control 65 of the Knesset's 120 seats and be named to head the next coalition government.
U.S. President Donald Trump phoned Netanyahu to congratulate him on his re-election.
Netanyahu thanked President Trump for his "tremendous support for Israel."
With 99 percent of the votes counted, Netanyahu's conservative Likud party appeared to muster enough support to control 65 of the Knesset's 120 seats and be named to head the next coalition government.
U.S. President Donald Trump phoned Netanyahu to congratulate him on his re-election.
Netanyahu thanked President Trump for his "tremendous support for Israel."
Tuesday, April 9, 2019
Crosses in Italian Cemetery Hidden with Cloth; Done So as Not to Hurt Those of Other Religions
The crosses on graves in an Italian cemetery in Pieve di Cento have been covered with black cloth so as not to offend those who may come from another religion, the Breitbart website reports today (April 9, 2019).
The cemetery, which is located in Bologna in a town of around 7,000 people, has also installed motorized blackout curtains in a local chapel to hide Roman Catholic symbols during ceremonies involving other denominations.
Forza Italia (Forward Italy) deputy Galeazzo Bignami denounced the action, saying it disrespects Christian values.
He added, "even more so the memory of the dead, hiding them behind 'motorized tents' in a cemetery to avoid offending other religions."
The cemetery, which is located in Bologna in a town of around 7,000 people, has also installed motorized blackout curtains in a local chapel to hide Roman Catholic symbols during ceremonies involving other denominations.
Forza Italia (Forward Italy) deputy Galeazzo Bignami denounced the action, saying it disrespects Christian values.
He added, "even more so the memory of the dead, hiding them behind 'motorized tents' in a cemetery to avoid offending other religions."
Iran Pres.:US Is Real Leader of World Terrorism; Destroys US Labeling Iran's Army a Terrorist Org.
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani today (April 9, 2019) said that the U.S. was the real "leader of world terrorism" after Washington blacklisted Iran's Revolutionary Guards as a "foreign terrorist organization," according to the AFP (Agence France-Presse) website.
"Who are you to label revolutionary institutions as terrorists?" Rouhani asked in a speech broadcast live by state television.
Rouhani defended the Revolutionary Guards as a force that has fought terrorism ever since its creation in 1979.
He said, "You want to use terrorist groups as tools against the nations of the region... you are the leader of world terrorism."
"Who are you to label revolutionary institutions as terrorists?" Rouhani asked in a speech broadcast live by state television.
Rouhani defended the Revolutionary Guards as a force that has fought terrorism ever since its creation in 1979.
He said, "You want to use terrorist groups as tools against the nations of the region... you are the leader of world terrorism."
Monday, April 8, 2019
Stanford Student Expelled for Admissions Bribe; Sailing Coach Fired for Taking $500,000 Bribe
A Stanford University student, who was linked to the college admissions scandal, has been expelled from the university, the Yahoo News website reports today (April 8, 2019).
School officials revealed last week that the student, who has not been identified, was accepted through the "standard process," but her admission was followed by a $500,000 donation to Stanford's sailing program via ex-head coach John Vandemoer, the school newspaper reported.
"We determined that some of the material in the student's application is false and, in accordance with our policies, have rescinded admission," the school wrote in a press release.
Vandemoer was fired last month after agreeing to plead guilty to accepting donations in exchange for recommending non-sailors as recruited athletes.
US Homeland Security Secretary Nielsen Resigns; Failed to Reduce Influx of Migrants from Mexico
U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen resigned yesterday, amid a surge in the number of migrants at the border with Mexico, the Reuters website reports today (April 8, 2019).
Nielsen had been DHS secretary since December 2017.
Her departure had been rumored over the past year, particularly after a wave of anger over the administration's 2018 family separation policy at the border with Mexico.
Most recently, she was criticized as U.S. border officials estimated that 100,000 migrants were apprehended at the southern border in March -- the highest level in a decade.
Nielsen had been DHS secretary since December 2017.
Her departure had been rumored over the past year, particularly after a wave of anger over the administration's 2018 family separation policy at the border with Mexico.
Most recently, she was criticized as U.S. border officials estimated that 100,000 migrants were apprehended at the southern border in March -- the highest level in a decade.
Sunday, April 7, 2019
Majority of US Women Feel They Lack Respect; Only 48% of US Women Feel They're Respected
Women in the U.S. still find themselves lagging behind leading countries on the issue of gender-based discrimination as the majority feel they are not respected, The Globe Post website reports today (April 7, 2019).
A recent Gallup poll shows that only 48 percent of women in the U.S. believe that women are treated with respect and dignity.
In a similar poll that surveyed women in 21 other countries, Gallup ranked the U.S. number 22, with Austria, Switzerland, and Denmark in the top three spots.
"Women's rights in the U.S. are strong in theory but beleaguered in practice, and institutionalized in fragile ways," Alison Brysk, human rights expert, told The Globe Post.
A recent Gallup poll shows that only 48 percent of women in the U.S. believe that women are treated with respect and dignity.
In a similar poll that surveyed women in 21 other countries, Gallup ranked the U.S. number 22, with Austria, Switzerland, and Denmark in the top three spots.
"Women's rights in the U.S. are strong in theory but beleaguered in practice, and institutionalized in fragile ways," Alison Brysk, human rights expert, told The Globe Post.
US to Designate Iranian Force as Terrorist Org.; Revolutionary Guards Corps Naming Imminent
The U.S. is expected to designate Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards Corps a foreign terrorist organization, three U.S. officials told Reuters, marking the first time Washington has formally labeled another country's military a terrorist group, the Reuters website reports today (April 7, 2019).
The decision is expected to be announced soon by the U.S. State Department, perhaps as early as April 8, the officials said.
The Pentagon declined comment on the decision.
The State Department and White House also declined to comment.
The decision is expected to be announced soon by the U.S. State Department, perhaps as early as April 8, the officials said.
The Pentagon declined comment on the decision.
The State Department and White House also declined to comment.
Saturday, April 6, 2019
Harvard Has Its Own Coach Admissions Scandal; Got Double Value for Home,Buyer's Son Accepted
Harvard's longtime fencing coach sold his suburban Boston home for nearly double its assessed value to a man whose son was later admitted to the school and joined the fencing team -- a transaction that shocked realtors and is now under review by the university -- the ABC News website reports today (April 6, 2019).
The coach, Peter Brand, received nearly $1 million in 2016 for the three-bedroom house on a quarter-acre in Needham, Mass., which was assessed at the time at $549,300.
The buyer, Jie Zhao, never lived in the home and sold it for a steep loss 17 months later.
The sale appears unrelated to the recent college admissions scandal in which wealthy parents have been charged with bribing coaches and helping rig standardized test scores to get their children into some of the nation's most selective schools, said Claudine Gay, Harvard's dean of the faculty of arts and sciences.
The coach, Peter Brand, received nearly $1 million in 2016 for the three-bedroom house on a quarter-acre in Needham, Mass., which was assessed at the time at $549,300.
The buyer, Jie Zhao, never lived in the home and sold it for a steep loss 17 months later.
The sale appears unrelated to the recent college admissions scandal in which wealthy parents have been charged with bribing coaches and helping rig standardized test scores to get their children into some of the nation's most selective schools, said Claudine Gay, Harvard's dean of the faculty of arts and sciences.
Why Do Women Tend to Live Longer Than Men?; Women See Doctors More Often, Address Health
New data finds women around the world live an average of 4.4 years longer than men, because they see the doctor more frequently and generally take better care of their health, the VOA News website reports today (April 6, 2019).
The World Health Organization's "Statistics Overview 2019" report says men have higher death rates than women from 33 of the risk factors. For example, men smoke and drink alcohol much more than women. The report also finds global suicide rates are 75 percent higher in men than in women.
Samira Asma, WHO assistant director general for data, says noncommunicable diseases are on the rise in most of the low- and middle-income countries, especially in Africa. She says this is due to the emergence of risk factors such as tobacco use, increase in alcohol consumption, and unhealthy diets.
"In terms of leading causes of noncommunicable disease-related deaths, are cardiovascular and ischemic heart disease. And hypertension. Though it is preventable and treatable, a risk factor is not being addressed," she said.
The World Health Organization's "Statistics Overview 2019" report says men have higher death rates than women from 33 of the risk factors. For example, men smoke and drink alcohol much more than women. The report also finds global suicide rates are 75 percent higher in men than in women.
Samira Asma, WHO assistant director general for data, says noncommunicable diseases are on the rise in most of the low- and middle-income countries, especially in Africa. She says this is due to the emergence of risk factors such as tobacco use, increase in alcohol consumption, and unhealthy diets.
"In terms of leading causes of noncommunicable disease-related deaths, are cardiovascular and ischemic heart disease. And hypertension. Though it is preventable and treatable, a risk factor is not being addressed," she said.
Friday, April 5, 2019
Taliban Fighters Kill or Wound 50 Afghan Forces; Hundreds Take Part in Attack Despite Peace Talks
At least 50 members of the Afghan security and police forces were killed or wounded yesterday in ongoing combat with hundreds of Taliban fighters in Badghis province, the UPI website reports today (April 5, 2019).
Some 500 Taliban fighters overran several check posts in the Bala Murghad district, Western Badghis provincial council head Abdul Aziz Beg said.
In a statement, the Taliban said it had gained control of a number of check posts in the district.
The latest attacks are part of the Taliban's yearly spring offensive, despite ongoing peace talks with the United States.
Some 500 Taliban fighters overran several check posts in the Bala Murghad district, Western Badghis provincial council head Abdul Aziz Beg said.
In a statement, the Taliban said it had gained control of a number of check posts in the district.
The latest attacks are part of the Taliban's yearly spring offensive, despite ongoing peace talks with the United States.
Italy and Malta Refuse Entry of Migrants on Ship; Ship with 64 Migrants Remains Stuck in Med. Sea
A humanitarian ship carrying 64 migrants is stuck in the Mediterranean Sea after both Italy and Malta refused the migrants entry, the Euro News website reports today (April 5, 2019).
The migrants were rescued off the coast of Libya on April 3 by the German NGO, Sea-Eye.
The ship is now in international waters off the Italian island of Lampedusa.
Italian Interior Minister Matteo Salvini said that since the ship is German-registered, it should "go to Hamburg."
The migrants were rescued off the coast of Libya on April 3 by the German NGO, Sea-Eye.
The ship is now in international waters off the Italian island of Lampedusa.
Italian Interior Minister Matteo Salvini said that since the ship is German-registered, it should "go to Hamburg."
Thursday, April 4, 2019
Australia Passes Law to Stop Violent Info Online; Executives Violating Law Face Fines or Jail Time
In the wake of last month's massacre in Christchurch, New Zealand, Australia has passed a sweeping new law to stop the spread of violent content online, the CNN website reports today (April 4, 2019).
Under the new law, internet companies such as Facebook and Google will be compelled to stop the spread of violent material.
If they don't, executives could face serious fines or jail terms.
The Christchurch suspect live streamed a large portion of the attack online on Facebook.
Under the new law, internet companies such as Facebook and Google will be compelled to stop the spread of violent material.
If they don't, executives could face serious fines or jail terms.
The Christchurch suspect live streamed a large portion of the attack online on Facebook.
Wednesday, April 3, 2019
Pope:Don't Fear God Allows Different Religions; We Must Relate Like a Fraternity as One Family
Pope Francis said today (April 3, 2019) that no one should be afraid that God has allowed there to be different religions in the world, according to the America Magazine website.
"But we should be frightened if we are not doing the work of fraternity, of walking together in life," as brothers and sisters of one human family, he said.
Following his visit to Muslim-dominated Morocco on March 31, the pope told his general audience today, "People might ask themselves, 'Why is it the pope visits Muslims and not just Catholics?'"
Catholics and Muslims are both "descendants of the same father, Abraham," he said, and the trip was another step on a journey of "dialogue and encounter with [our] Muslim brothers and sisters."
"But we should be frightened if we are not doing the work of fraternity, of walking together in life," as brothers and sisters of one human family, he said.
Following his visit to Muslim-dominated Morocco on March 31, the pope told his general audience today, "People might ask themselves, 'Why is it the pope visits Muslims and not just Catholics?'"
Catholics and Muslims are both "descendants of the same father, Abraham," he said, and the trip was another step on a journey of "dialogue and encounter with [our] Muslim brothers and sisters."
LA Hockey Coaches,Players Hit for Anti-Semitism; Disgraced Jews with Nazi Salutes, Vulgar Remarks
A Los Angeles-based hockey team has suspended 15 players and three coaches following a video surfacing on social media of one player doing a Nazi salute, while others made anti-Semitic remarks, such as "F*** the Jews," the World Israel News website reports today (April 3, 2019).
"The Athletic" first reported the development.
It is unclear if the anti-Semitic comments made by the LA Jr. Kings 14U AAA recreational club, which is not affiliated with the National Hockey League's LA Kings, were directed towards Jewish players on the team.
"This is outrageous," said Simon Wiesenthal Center founder and dean Rabbi Marvin Hier. "At a time when anti-Semitism is so prevalent all over the world, we discover that in our own backyard in LA Junior Kings hockey team made anti-Semitic remarks and Nazi salutes mocking Jews."
"The Athletic" first reported the development.
It is unclear if the anti-Semitic comments made by the LA Jr. Kings 14U AAA recreational club, which is not affiliated with the National Hockey League's LA Kings, were directed towards Jewish players on the team.
"This is outrageous," said Simon Wiesenthal Center founder and dean Rabbi Marvin Hier. "At a time when anti-Semitism is so prevalent all over the world, we discover that in our own backyard in LA Junior Kings hockey team made anti-Semitic remarks and Nazi salutes mocking Jews."
Tuesday, April 2, 2019
Bernie Sanders Could Be Next President of US; May Win Democratic Nomination, Beat Trump
As outlandish as it might sound that an elderly democratic socialist could win a national election, we should all wake up to the fact that it's now perfectly plausible that Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) could be our next president, the Washington Examiner website reports today (April 2, 2019).
Ultimately, the presidential campaign boils down to two questions: Could there be a scenario in which Sanders captures the Democratic nomination? And if he does, could there be a scenario in which he beats President Trump head-to-head?
Breaking those questions down independently, one would have to answer yes to both.
We cannot assume that Sanders simply can't win because it would be too absurd. Given that nearly every professional analyst said the same thing about the possibility of Trump winning, it's worth shelving such assumptions about what's "realistic" in modern politics and just look at the possibility on its merits.
Ultimately, the presidential campaign boils down to two questions: Could there be a scenario in which Sanders captures the Democratic nomination? And if he does, could there be a scenario in which he beats President Trump head-to-head?
Breaking those questions down independently, one would have to answer yes to both.
We cannot assume that Sanders simply can't win because it would be too absurd. Given that nearly every professional analyst said the same thing about the possibility of Trump winning, it's worth shelving such assumptions about what's "realistic" in modern politics and just look at the possibility on its merits.
Kurdish Fighters Battling with IS after Victory; Despite March 23 Defeat,IS Fanatics Still Fight
U.S.-backed Syrian Kurdish fighters are battling the Islamic State (IS) terrorist group in eastern Syria 10 days after declaring victory over the radical Muslims, the Military Times website reports today (April 2, 2019).
Mustafa Bali, a spokesman for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), said they are rooting out groups of militants who were hiding in caves in and near the village of Baghouz.
He added that SDF experts are still removing mines and booby-traps in areas liberated in recent weeks.
The SDF declared military victory over IS on March 23 after liberating what was the last pocket of territory held by the militants. The victory marked the end of the brutal self-styled caliphate the group carved out in large parts of Iraq and Syria in 2014.
Mustafa Bali, a spokesman for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), said they are rooting out groups of militants who were hiding in caves in and near the village of Baghouz.
He added that SDF experts are still removing mines and booby-traps in areas liberated in recent weeks.
The SDF declared military victory over IS on March 23 after liberating what was the last pocket of territory held by the militants. The victory marked the end of the brutal self-styled caliphate the group carved out in large parts of Iraq and Syria in 2014.
Monday, April 1, 2019
Erdogan's Turkish Party Suffers Major Losses; Voters Show Lowest Support for Erdogan Ever
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's Justice and Development Party (AK Party) has lost the capital Ankara and looks set to lose the commercial hub of Istanbul after 25 years in power in both cities, as yesterday's municipal election results -- largely seen as a referendum on Erdogan himself -- are being counted, the CNBC website reports today (April 1, 2019).
The victories claimed by the opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) are a formidable blow to the ruling right-wing AK Party. They are also seen as the least voter support for Erdogan in his two decades as Turkey's dictator.
Voters went to the polls with the economy as their major concern.
Turkey's economy fell into a recession last year, and unemployment is now around 13 percent, nearly a decade high.
The victories claimed by the opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) are a formidable blow to the ruling right-wing AK Party. They are also seen as the least voter support for Erdogan in his two decades as Turkey's dictator.
Voters went to the polls with the economy as their major concern.
Turkey's economy fell into a recession last year, and unemployment is now around 13 percent, nearly a decade high.
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