Afghan chopper crash kills four NATO soldiers

KABUL – Four NATO soldiers were killed Monday when their chopper crashed in southern Afghanistan, Xinhua reported.

“Four ISAF (International Security Assistance Force) service members died as a result of a helicopter crash in southern Afghanistan today (Monday),” the ISAF said in a statement.
Three of the victims were Australian soldiers.
Troops from the …. Original source  : Afghan chopper crash kills four NATO soldiers.

Chhattisgarh couple commits suicide in Shimla hotel

SHIMLA – A couple from Chhattisgarh allegedly committed suicide at a hotel in the Himachal Pradesh capital here. Police Monday said the man was wanted in a murder case.

“The couple was found unconscious in a hotel in the Lakkar Bazaar area of the city. They were taken to the Indira Gandhi Medical College and … Original source on Gaea Times at : Chhattisgarh couple commits suicide in Shimla hotel.

No arrest yet in Haryana suspected honour killing

BHIWANI – No arrests have yet been made in connection with the suspected honour killing of two teenaged lovers whose bodies were found hanging from a tree in a Haryana village, police said Monday.

The bodies of Monika, 18, resident of Neemdiwala village, and Pinku, 19, of Manheru village, were found Sunday at Neemdiwala village …. Read the original article  : No arrest yet in Haryana suspected honour killing.

BP says it has now spent $2 billion responding to massive oil spill in Gulf of Mexico

BP’s Gulf oil spill costs reach $2 billion

ON THE GULF OF MEXICO – BP said Monday it has now spent $2 billion responding to the massive oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
And with no end yet in sight, that number is expected to keep rising.
BP PLC agreed last week to set up a $20 …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

National Guard, police watch over Billings area devastated by tornado

Montana police guard zone damaged by tornado

BILLINGS, Mont. – National Guard troops and local police were keeping a close eye on damaged property after a tornado barreled through two Billings neighborhoods, tearing the roof off a sports arena and several buildings.
The tornado struck at about 4:30 p.m. Sunday, running through Main Street and damaging about …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : National Guard, police watch over Billings area devastated by tornado.

BP says its Gulf of Mexico spill costs reach $2 billion, says partners are also liable

BP says oil spill costs reach $2 billion
LONDON – BP PLC said Monday that its partners in the leaking Gulf of Mexico oil well must share responsibility for the costs in dealing with the disaster, on which BP said it has now spent $2 billion.

BP hit back at Anadarko Petroleum Corp., which has a 25 … Original source on Gaea Times at : BP says its Gulf of Mexico spill costs reach $2 billion, says partners are also liable.

Flooding death toll rises to 175, with 107 more missing in southern China

Flooding death toll rises to 175 in southern China

BEIJING – Widespread flooding in southern China has caused 175 deaths, with 107 more people missing and more storms expected, the government said Monday.
Thousands of houses have been destroyed and economic losses have topped 14 billion yuan ($2.05 billion), according to the Ministry of Water Resources. The …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Congressman’s BP ’shakedown’ remark resonates with conservatives wanting small government

Tea partiers wary of regulation, even in BP spill
JACKSON, Miss. – A tea party favorite running for the U.S. Senate in Kentucky says President Barack Obama is using the Gulf of Mexico oil spill to advance an energy tax.
While Democrats denounce BP for the spill, a Republican congressman from Texas accuses the White …. Source article  : Congressman’s BP ’shakedown’ remark resonates with conservatives wanting small government.

Billings Tornado Wrecks Havoc

BILLINGS (GaeaTimes.com) On Sunday a tornado ripped through Montana casing massive damage to structures in Billings and Lockwood. The tornado struck around 5pm and witnesses who saw the phenomenon said that it hovered over the Rimrock Auto Arena for 15 mins. The tornado was followed by a hailstorm with golf ball sized hail. Residents …. Source article  : Billings Tornado Wrecks Havoc.

NATO says 4 international service members die in helicopter crash in southern Afghanistan

NATO says 4 troops die in Afghan copter crash

KABUL, Afghanistan – A military helicopter crashed during an early morning operation in southern Afghanistan on Monday, killing three Australian commandoes and an American service member, officials said.
The crash was being investigated but there were no indications of enemy involvement, NATO said in a statement.
The Australian government …. Source  : NATO says 4 international service members die in helicopter crash in southern Afghanistan.

Will the Gulf oil spill cause any health problems? Experts to weigh in at New Orleans meeting

Oil spill stirs study, debate over health impacts
ATLANTA – When an Associated Press reporter went scuba diving in the oil-streaked Gulf of Mexico this month, people commenting on websites worried about his health. But at the same time, the oil sure didn’t bother some beachgoers in Alabama.
“I was in the water two hours …. Read the original article  : here.

Hundreds of homeowners urged to evacuate ahead of Arizona wildfire

Hundreds urged to evacuate ahead of AZ wildfire

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – Firefighters in aircraft and on the ground battled the second serious wildfire to threaten the Flagstaff area in two days Sunday, prompting officials to urge hundreds of residents to flee as flames crept within 500 yards of some homes.
Officials said the fast-spreading fire erupted in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Hundreds of homeowners urged to evacuate ahead of Arizona wildfire.

Man dies in police custody, three cops suspended

LUCKNOW – The death of a physically-challenged man in police custody sparked mob fury and led to the suspension of three policemen in Uttar Pradesh’s Pratapgarh district, officials said Monday.

The violence erupted late Sunday in Nawabganj area, about 150 km from here, when a crowd stoned the police and tried to torch police vehicles.
The … Read more : Man dies in police custody, three cops suspended.

Assam’s international airport a hub for smuggling wildlife products?

SHILLONG – Assam’s Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport appears to have become one of the main transit points for smugglers to transport wildlife products to China and Far East Asia.

In less than a week, customs seized tiger skeletons and pangolin scales worth more than Rs.5 crore (over a million dollars) from the airport.
“From the …. Source article  : Assam’s international airport a hub for smuggling wildlife products?.

16 die in Pakistan accident

ISLAMABAD – At least 16 people were killed when a bus collided with another vehicle in Karak city in northwest Pakistan Monday, police said.

Three people were injured in the accident, a police officer told Xinhua.
The dead included three children and four women.
…. Source  : Gaea News Network.

46 die in China mine blast

BEIJING – At least 46 people were killed in an explosion in a coal mine early Monday in China’s Henan province, the authorities said.

A total of 72 miners were trapped after explosives went off at the Xingdong Number 2 mine in Pingdingshan city, Xinhua reported. The cause of the explosion is not known.
… Read more »».

Relief operations continue as death toll hits 63 in Myanmar from flooding and landslides

Death toll from Myanmar floods, landslides hits 63

YANGON, Myanmar – The military and humanitarian groups are aiding people in northwestern Myanmar, where days of flooding and landslides killed more than 60 people and affected 15,000 families, state media and the United Nations reported Monday.
In Rakhine state, the torrential rains triggered floods and mudslides that washed … Read more >>>.

State media say at least 46 killed after explosion in central China mine

Media: 46 dead in explosion in central China mine

BEIJING – At least 46 miners were killed Monday when an explosion ripped through a coal mine in central China, state media reported.
The blast hit a mine in Pingdingshan city in the province of Henan, the State Administration of Work Safety said. Seventy-two miners were trapped initially … Read more »».

Hundreds of homes evacuated because of Flagstaff, Ariz., wildfire; search under way for hikers

Hundreds of homes evacuated because of Ariz. fire

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – The second wildfire to hit Flagstaff in two days quickly spread Sunday to more than 4 square miles, driving residents from hundreds of homes just north of this forested city, creating a huge plume of smoke and prompting a search for missing hikers.
Also Sunday, evacuation … Read more : Hundreds of homes evacuated because of Flagstaff, Ariz., wildfire; search under way for hikers.

Tornado rips roof from sporting arena, tears apart businesses in Billings, Mont.

Tornado rips businesses, arena in Billings, Mont.

BILLINGS, Mont. – A tornado that ripped the roof off a sports arena Sunday evening also tore through businesses, damaging a bar and a casino and leaving just the walls of an auto glass shop standing.
The tornado struck at about 4:30 p.m. as a big storm system with golf …. Source  : Tornado rips roof from sporting arena, tears apart businesses in Billings, Mont..

BP executive heckled at London oil conference after CEO Tony Hayward pulls out

Hayward’s stand-in heckled at London oil meeting

LONDON – A BP executive has been heckled at an oil conference in London while standing in for embattled chief executive Tony Hayward.
BP chief of staff Steve Westwell was interrupted twice during his address on Tuesday by protesters shouting “we need to end the oil age!” The hecklers were … Read this article on Gaea Times at : BP executive heckled at London oil conference after CEO Tony Hayward pulls out.

Handwriting in suicide note was of Nirupama: Forensic report

RANCHI – Delhi journalist Nirupama Pathak, who was found dead in her Jharkhand home April 29, had herself written her suicide note, the forensic report has confirmed.

“The forensic report which has been submitted in the court says that the handwriting on the suicide note was of Nirupama Pathak,” Arun Mishra, lawyer of Nirupama’s mother Sudha, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Handwriting in suicide note was of Nirupama: Forensic report.

Owner of broken Deepwater Horizon rig criticizes Obama’s ban on deepwater drilling

Gulf rig owner criticizes Obama’s drilling halt
LONDON – The owner of the broken Deepwater Horizon rig that is spewing oil into the Gulf of Mexico has criticized the U.S. government’s six-month ban on deepwater drilling in the area.
Transocean Ltd. president Steven Newman said Tuesday on the sidelines of an oil conference in London …. Source article  : Owner of broken Deepwater Horizon rig criticizes Obama’s ban on deepwater drilling.

Abandoning script, ‘Muslim soldier’ details chilling plot to blow up Americans in Times Square

Times Square car bomber details his chilling plot

NEW YORK – Admitted terrorist Faisal Shahzad was so eager to tell how he plotted to kill Americans in Times Square, he went to court with a prepared statement.
U.S. District Judge Miriam Cedarbaum refused to hear him read it Monday, instead challenging the Pakistan-born American citizen to just …. Original article  : Abandoning script, ‘Muslim soldier’ details chilling plot to blow up Americans in Times Square.

Roadside bomb targeting Transportation Ministry official kills 2 civilians in Baghdad

Bomb targeting Iraqi official kills 2 civilians

BAGHDAD – A roadside bomb apparently aimed at a senior Transportation Ministry official on Tuesday missed its target and killed two bystanders instead, officials said.
The blast occurred about 8 a.m. in the mainly Sunni area of Dora, a former insurgent stronghold in southern Baghdad.
It struck near a convoy carrying …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Roadside bomb targeting Transportation Ministry official kills 2 civilians in Baghdad.

Trial set to open for rigger accused in NYC crane collapse that killed 6 workers, Fla. tourist

Trial set to open for rigger in NYC crane collapse

NEW YORK – The crane was a 200-foot-tall, 150-ton metal tower. Its undoing amounted to four polyester straps, prosecutors say.
More than two years after the massive crane collapsed and killed seven people, a rigger was set to go on trial Tuesday on criminal charges of causing … Read more : Trial set to open for rigger accused in NYC crane collapse that killed 6 workers, Fla. tourist.

Suspected Kurdish rebels kill 4 in bomb attack on military bus in Istanbul

Suspected Kurdish rebels kill 4 in bombing

ANKARA, Turkey – Suspected Kurdish rebels detonated a remote-controlled bomb in Istanbul Tuesday, killing four people and wounding 12 on a bus carrying military personnel and their families, the governor said.
Gov. Huseyin Avni Mutlu said two of the wounded were in critical condition following the early morning attack. The …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Suspected Kurdish rebels kill 4 in bomb attack on military bus in Istanbul.

Gulf Coast residents confused _ and frustrated _ over whether claims payouts should be taxed

Gulf residents unsure if oil claims are taxed
NEW ORLEANS – Out-of-work Gulf Coast shrimper Todd Pellegal spent his first $2,500 check from BP quickly, paying off bills and buying groceries for his family.
He never even considered putting some of it away for taxes.
Now he’s among the people up and down the …. Read the original article  : Gulf Coast residents confused _ and frustrated _ over whether claims payouts should be taxed.

Suspected Kurdish rebels kill at least 3 in bomb attack on military bus in Istanbul

Suspected Kurdish rebels kill 3 in bombing

ANKARA, Turkey – Suspected Kurdish rebels detonated a remote-controlled bomb in Istanbul Tuesday, killing at least three people on a bus carrying military personnel and their families, the governor said.
Gov. Huseyin Avni Mutlu said six other people were wounded, two critically, in the early morning attack. The state-run Anatolia … Read more : Suspected Kurdish rebels kill at least 3 in bomb attack on military bus in Istanbul.

Suspected Kurdish rebels kill at least 3 in bomb attack on military bus in Istanbul

Suspected Kurdish rebels kill 3 in bombing

ANKARA, Turkey – Suspected Kurdish rebels detonated a remote-controlled bomb in Istanbul Tuesday, killing at least three people on a bus carrying military personnel and their families, the governor said.
Gov. Huseyin Avni Mutlu said six other people were wounded, two critically, in the early morning attack. The state-run Anatolia … Read more >>>.

Youth lynched for murdering shopkeeper

LUCKNOW – A young man was beaten to death in Uttar Pradesh by a group of villagers when he tried to escape after murdering a shopkeeper, police said Tuesday.

The youth, in his early 20s, was killed late Monday in Jandheri village of Muzaffarnagar district, about 350 km from here. He is yet to be identified. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Youth lynched for murdering shopkeeper.

Report: suspected Kurdish rebels kill 3 in bomb attack on military bus in Istanbul

Report: suspected Kurd rebels kill 3 in bombing

ANKARA, Turkey – A television report says suspected Kurdish rebels have killed at least three people in a bomb attack on a bus carrying military personnel in Istanbul.
CNN-Turk television shows the video footage of the bus after Tuesday’s explosion that shattered its windows and damaged its trunk underneath … Read more »».

Authorities say wildfire that’s burned 10,000 acres near Flagstaff now 10 percent contained

Wildfire near Flagstaff now 10 percent contained

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – Authorities say a 10,000-acre wildfire northeast of Flagstaff, Ariz., that was started by an abandoned campfire has been 10 percent contained.
However, residents of about 750 homes remain under evacuation orders Monday as 800 firefighters continue to battle the so-called Schultz fire that broke out Sunday. No …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Authorities say wildfire that’s burned 10,000 acres near Flagstaff now 10 percent contained.

Chicago officials say pebbles picked up by high winds broke downtown windows

Chicago officials say pebbles broke windows

CHICAGO – Chicago officials say white pebbles spread on rooftops to reflect sunlight are to blame for some broken high-rise windows in last week’s violent storms.
The white pebbles are put on roofs to lessen the need for air conditioning in the buildings.
Jose Santiago, director of Chicago’s Office of Emergency Management, …. Source article  : Chicago officials say pebbles picked up by high winds broke downtown windows.

Celia is upgraded to Category 2 hurricane in Eastern Pacific, still not a threat to land

Celia is upgraded to Category 2 hurricane
MIAMI – Hurricane Celia grew stronger Monday evening in the East Pacific Ocean and was upgraded to a Category 2.

Celia was centered about 505 miles (815 kilometers) south of Manzanillo, Mexico and the storm is not seen as a threat to land.
The hurricane is expected to continue moving west, … Read : Celia is upgraded to Category 2 hurricane in Eastern Pacific, still not a threat to land.

Eight killed in Uttar Pradesh accident

LUCKNOW – Eight people of a marriage party were killed and six critically injured when their vehicle rammed into a roadside tree in Uttar Pradesh’s Ghazipur district, police said Tuesday.

The accident took place at around midnight in Behlolpur area, about 250 km from Lucknow, when the jeep spun out of control.
“Six people died on …. Read the original article  : here.

US Senate report says Haiti rebuilding has stalled, calls for president and donors to lead

US Senate report says Haiti rebuilding has stalled
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – Haiti has made little progress in rebuilding in the five months since its earthquake, because of an absence of leadership, disagreements among donors and general disorganization, a U.S. Senate report says.
Obtained Monday by The Associated Press, the eight-page report is meant to give …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

NH man escapes injury after minivan crashes into coin-operated laundry; no charges filed

Minivan crashes into NH laundromat; no injuries

LEE, N.H. – Police in New Hampshire say a man who was loading his clothes into a washing machine narrowly escaped injury when a minivan crashed through the wall of a coin-operated laundry and came to a stop next to him.
John Osambo says he was in the Lee Laundermat … Original source on Gaea Times at : NH man escapes injury after minivan crashes into coin-operated laundry; no charges filed.

No survivors from plane found crashed in Cameroon

SYDNEY – Searchers have found the wreckage of a plane chartered by an Australian mining company in West Africa, former Sundance Resources chairman George Jones said Tuesday.

“We’ve been told by our operatives in Cameroon that the aircraft has been located, there are 11 bodies that have been found, and there are no survivors,” Jones told … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : No survivors from plane found crashed in Cameroon.

Ariz. officials: Abandoned campfire sparked latest wildfire near Flagstaff, now at 10K acres

Ariz. wildfire near Flagstaff now at 10,000 acres

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – Fire crews battling the so-called Schultz fire that has threatened homes in Flagstaff, Ariz., have made some progress.
Authorities declared the 10,000-acre wildfire 10 percent contained by Monday night.
Incident commander Dugger Hughes says the flames reached the back yards of some homes while coming within a …. Source article  : Ariz. officials: Abandoned campfire sparked latest wildfire near Flagstaff, now at 10K acres.

50,000 Bangladesh workers booked for violence

DHAKA – As many as 50,000 to 60,000 garment industry workers have been booked for violence over the last weekend in Ashulia, a suburban industrial township on the outskirts of the national capital.

Four cases were lodged at the Ashulia police station by Wednesday evening — one was against 50,000 to 60,000 unnamed people while … Read more >>.

Indonesia’s president hopes high-profile arrest cripples new cell accused of plotting attacks

Indonesia’s president hopes arrest cripples cell

JAKARTA, Indonesia – Indonesia’s president said he hoped the arrest of the country’s most-wanted terrorist would help cripple a cell accused of plotting a Mumbai-style attack targeting foreigners at luxury hotels and several high-profile assassinations.
President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, reportedly a target of the plot, urged people to remain vigilant, however, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Indonesia’s president hopes high-profile arrest cripples new cell accused of plotting attacks.

Nudge from robot mile undersea foils oil containment system for day; dozen of subs operating

Robot nudge foils Gulf oil collection for a day

NEW ORLEANS – One nudge by a deep-sea robot, and BP had to back off its most effective method so far for containing the Gulf of Mexico oil leak.
After being removed for much of the day Wednesday, engineers using remote-controlled submarines repositioned a cap that had captured … Read more >>>.

China says terror group uncovered that plotted attacks after last year’s Xinjiang unrest

China says terrorist group broken up in Xinjiang

BEIJING – China said Thursday it had crushed a gang of Muslim terrorists that plotted attacks in the wake of deadly ethnic violence in the northwestern region of Xinjiang last year.
Public Security Ministry spokesman Wu Heping said the “hardcore terrorists” had assembled pipe bombs, molotov cocktails, knives and … Original source on Gaea Times at : China says terror group uncovered that plotted attacks after last year’s Xinjiang unrest.

Afghan government: 7 civilians working on road construction killed in bomb attack

7 Afghan construction workers killed in bombing

KABUL, Afghanistan – The Afghan government says seven private construction workers have been killed in a roadside bomb attack in central Afghanistan.
The Interior Ministry says in a statement that Wednesday’s blast in Uruzgan province came from a remote-controlled bomb. It was detonated just as a vehicle belonging to Qaher … Read more : Afghan government: 7 civilians working on road construction killed in bomb attack.

Indian arrested for murder in Italy

Anzio (Italy), June 24 (IANS/AKI) An Indian man has been arrested on suspicion of murdering a fellow Indian whose headless body was found on a beach in a town south of Rome, an official said.

The suspect, whom police have only identified as “G” Singh, is the second man arrested for the murder of 46-year-old …. Read the original article  : here.

Afghans relieved at choice of Gen. Petraeus to lead war

Afghans relieved at choice of Gen. Petraeus
KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan officials expressed relief at the choice of Gen. David Petraeus to replace Gen. Stanley McChrystal as the top U.S. and NATO commander, believing the U.S. strategy aimed at minimizing civilian casualties and bolstering the Afghan government would continue.
Afghans had warned that the dismissal …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

NATO says 4 of its service members killed in a vehicle accident in southern Afghanistan

Auto accident kills 4 NATO troops in Afghanistan
KABUL, Afghanistan – NATO says 4 of its service members have been killed in a vehicle accident in southern Afghanistan.
The international military coalition said the accident happened Wednesday but did not provide further details, and did not identify the nationalities of the dead.
U.S. military spokesman Col. … Read : NATO says 4 of its service members killed in a vehicle accident in southern Afghanistan.

Carnegie Heroes Fund awards 23 people medals, money for courageous acts that saved others

Carnegie Heroes Fund honors 23 with medals, money

PITTSBURGH – Two men who died while saving a 5-year-old girl and her mother who had fallen through ice into a pond and two others who subdued a church gunman are among 23 people being honored with Carnegie medals for heroism.
Willard Van Fleet Jr., of Factoryville, Pa., and …. Original article  : Carnegie Heroes Fund awards 23 people medals, money for courageous acts that saved others.

Hurricane Celia weakens but still Category 2 storm in the Pacific; TS Darby changes little

Hurricane Celia weakens but still Category 2 storm

MIAMI – Hurricane Celia has weakened a bit in the Pacific but is still a Category 2 storm.
According to the National Hurricane Center in Miami, the storm’s maximum sustained winds decreased Wednesday night to near 105 mph (165 kph) and were expected to weaken further.
Celia is located about … Read : Hurricane Celia weakens but still Category 2 storm in the Pacific; TS Darby changes little.

12 killed in Spain train accident

BARCELONA – At least 12 pedestrians were killed in a train accident on the Spanish coast near Barcelona, rescue workers said early Thursday.

The victims were killed by an express train near the coastal town of Castelldefels, officials said. They were trying to cross the tracks on their way to the beach to participate in a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Containment cap reattached, again collecting Gulf oil; will take time for system to ramp up

Cap again collecting oil from Gulf of Mexico leak

NEW ORLEANS – Oil had spewed uncontrolled into the Gulf of Mexico for much of the day Wednesday before engineers reattached a cap being used to contain the gusher and direct some of the crude to a surface ship.
The logistics coordinator onboard the Discoverer Enterpriser, the ship …. Original article  : Containment cap reattached, again collecting Gulf oil; will take time for system to ramp up.

Justice Department seeks delay in ruling that overturned drilling moratorium in Gulf

Government seeks delay in moratorium ruling

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration on Wednesday night asked a judge to delay a court ruling that overturned a moratorium on new drilling in the Gulf.
In court papers filed with the U.S. District Court in New Orleans, the Justice Department said that it is seeking the delay while appealing the … Original article on : Justice Department seeks delay in ruling that overturned drilling moratorium in Gulf.

Small-scale flooding reported in Gonaives, northwest Haitian city housing quake refugees

Small-scale flooding reported in northwest Haiti

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – Haitian civil protection officials say rains have caused small floods in the northwestern city of Gonaives.
Civil protection director Marie Alta Jean-Baptiste said Wednesday night there had been no reports of injuries or damage to property.
Much of the country is under an “orange alert” for more serious floods … Read more >>>.

Oil again spewing in Gulf after undersea robot bumps cap that had been containing some

Oil spews again in Gulf after robot bumps cap

NEW ORLEANS – Oil spewed uncontrolled into the Gulf of Mexico again Wednesday after an undersea robot bumped the cap being used to contain it, forcing BP engineers to remove the device and then scramble to reattach it.
The latest setback left nothing to stem the flow of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Oil again spewing in Gulf after undersea robot bumps cap that had been containing some.

Labor secretary: Time to replace federal mine safety agency’s process for ID’ing trouble spots

Labor secretary faults mine scrutiny process

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – U.S. Labor Secretary Hilda Solis on Wednesday said her department needs to scrap and replace its “badly broken” process for identifying the nation’s most dangerous mines.
An alert from the Labor Department inspector general’s office questions why the U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration between 2007 and 2009 … Read more : Labor secretary: Time to replace federal mine safety agency’s process for ID’ing trouble spots.

54 bodies found in Colombian coal mine

Bogota, June 24 (IANS/EFE) Bodies of 54 people killed in Colombian coal mine blast last week have been recovered, sources in Colombia’s Geology and Mining Institute said Wednesday.

Around 20 more bodies are still trapped inside the San Fernando mine in northwestern town of Amaga, the sources said.
The explosion, apparently due to an accumulation of …. Source  : 54 bodies found in Colombian coal mine.

Fed report confirms underwater ‘cloud’ of oil extends up to 6 miles from ruptured well in Gulf

Fed report confirms underwater oil cloud near well

NEW ORLEANS – A federal report confirms what independent scientists have been saying for weeks about the Gulf oil spill: Undersea oil plumes extend for miles from the ruptured well.
The report may help measure the effectiveness of spreading chemicals to break up the oil.
Government researchers released a summary … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Fed report confirms underwater ‘cloud’ of oil extends up to 6 miles from ruptured well in Gulf.

NASA: Easter Baja California earthquake moved border city of Calexico

NASA: Easter quake moved border city
PASADENA, Calif. – The strong Easter earthquake physically moved the border city of Calexico.

NASA data released Wednesday revealed the magnitude-7.2 quake shifted the Calexico region up to 2 1/2 feet in a southerly direction.
The quake, centered in Baja California, caused $100 million in damage to California, primarily in Calexico.
It’s not … Original article on : NASA: Easter Baja California earthquake moved border city of Calexico.

Coast Guard: 2 Gulf cleanup workers die; no apparent direct connection to oil spill

Admiral: 2 spill workers die; no direct oil links

WASHINGTON – Coast Guard Adm. Thad Allen says two contract workers helping with the Gulf of Mexico oil spill cleanup have died. Neither death appears to have a direct connection to the spill.
Allen said Wednesday in Washington that one man was killed by what investigators later called … Read : Coast Guard: 2 Gulf cleanup workers die; no apparent direct connection to oil spill.

Delhi Police seek custody of murder accused

NEW DELHI – The Delhi Police Friday approached a court seeking a warrant to take custody of the three men arrested in Ghaziabad on charges of killing a couple and another woman in the capital.

“We have sought a production warrant. After getting the court orders, we will approach the Uttar Pradesh Police,” Delhi Police [..] Read the original article: here.

Sangma hurt in Bangladesh road accident

SHILLONG – Former Lok Sabha speaker Purno A. Sangma, his wife and former Rajya Sabha MP B.B. Dutta were injured in a road accident in Bangladesh, Sangma’s son Conrad K. Sangma said here Friday.

“They are on the way to Shillong (India) and they will be taken to North East Regional Institute of Medical Sciences …. Original article  : Sangma hurt in Bangladesh road accident.

Fire in Lucknow building

LUCKNOW – A fire enveloped a commercial building near the Raj Bhawan here Friday, but there were no casualties and everyone in the complex was evacuated to safety, an official said.

The fire broke out in the office of stockbroking firm Karvy and spread to other commercial outlets in the building in Hazratganj area.
“We controlled …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Nine held for poaching

RAIPUR – Nine Chhattisgarh villagers were arrested Friday for poaching a sambar and eating it, an official said.

The animal’s skin was recovered from a house in Taldadar village. The men were arrested by the forest department for poaching inside the Barnawapara sanctuary, 85 km from here. The nine are aged 21 to 45 years.
The …. Source  : Nine held for poaching.

Conn. city surveys damage from powerful storm that knocked down buildings, tore off roofs

Conn. city surveys damage from powerful storm

BRIDGEPORT, Conn. – Some parts of the city looked untouched. And then there were the sections that in the words of the mayor looked like Godzilla came in and ripped off roofs, knocked down buildings, toppled trees and shattered windows.
“This was a very powerful storm,” Mayor Bill Finch said. … Read more »».

No Gulf seafood means no po-boys, anything else at shuttered Louisiana cafe; others hurting

No Gulf seafood, no po-boys; owner shuts La. cafe

GHEENS, La. – Vicki Guillot has served her last seafood po-boy.
The local bounty of fresh shrimp and oysters that once kept the only restaurant in this rural Louisiana town bustling can no longer be culled from the Gulf of Mexico because of the massive oil spill that … Read this article on Gaea Times at : No Gulf seafood means no po-boys, anything else at shuttered Louisiana cafe; others hurting.

More dirty signs of massive Gulf spill wash ashore; latest cap setback has residents skeptical

More dirty evidence of Gulf oil spill wash ashore
NEW ORLEANS – More dirty evidence of the massive oil spill washed ashore along the Gulf Coast for residents who don’t need anymore reminders of their frustration over failed efforts to stop the crude gushing from a blown-out undersea well.
In Florida, officials on Thursday closed … Read this article on Gaea Times at : More dirty signs of massive Gulf spill wash ashore; latest cap setback has residents skeptical.

India to push for extradition from United States of ex-Union Carbide chief for Bhopal leak

India to try to extradite ex-Union Carbide head

NEW DELHI – India’s Cabinet has approved pushing for the former head of Union Carbide to be extradited over the toxic gas leak in 1984 that killed an estimated 15,000 people.
Public ire over the world’s worst industrial disaster in the Indian city of Bhopal resurfaced this month after …. Source article  : India to push for extradition from United States of ex-Union Carbide chief for Bhopal leak.

Spain official says 13 summer solstice train crash victims caused their own deaths

Spain blames victims in train crash that killed 13

CASTELLDEFELS, Spain – Spanish officials blamed summer solstice partygoers for crossing the tracks into the path of an express train that killed at least 13, but others said a new underground exit was poorly marked and an old crossing was blocked off, leaving travelers confused.
In addition to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Workers begin repairs on breached river as China struggles with widespread flooded areas

Workers begin repairing dikes after China’s floods

BEIJING – Workers and soldiers began repairing two breached areas on a river Friday after widespread flooding killed more than 200 people and caused $6.4 billion in damages across southern China.
Rescuers worked along on the Fuhe river near Fuzhou city in Jiangxi province, said a report posted on the …. Source  : Workers begin repairs on breached river as China struggles with widespread flooded areas.

Eight killed in Himachal wall collapse

SHIMLA – Eight labourers were killed when a wall of their temporary hutment caved in early Friday due to heavy rains in Himachal Pradesh’s Sirmaur district, an official said.

The labourers, mostly from Uttar Pradesh, were sleeping in their hutment when the wall collapsed around 3 a.m. at Sataun village, some 250 km from here, Deputy …. Original article  : Eight killed in Himachal wall collapse.

South Korea says North set no-sail zone off western coast, but no unusual military moves seen

SKorea: NKorea set no-sail zones off west coast
SEOUL, South Korea – North Korea banned boats off its west coast, a South Korean official said Friday, in a possible indication the country may hold an artillery drill or even conduct missile tests.
The official with the Joint Chiefs of Staff said that South Korea is … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : South Korea says North set no-sail zone off western coast, but no unusual military moves seen.

Sharapova helps Chernobyl disaster victims

UNITED NATIONS – Russian tennis star Maria Sharopova will visit Belarus to take part in a UN project aimed at helping youth affected by a massive explosion in Chernobyl nuclear reactor 24 years ago.

Sharapova, 23, who is also a goodwill ambassador of the United Nations Development Project (UNDP), will travel to the area near the … Read more : Sharapova helps Chernobyl disaster victims.

Severe storm tears through Bridgeport, Conn., shredding buildings, toppling trees, power lines

Severe storm shatters largest city in Connecticut

BRIDGEPORT, Conn. – A severe storm packing ferocious winds tore through Connecticut’s largest city Thursday, toppling trees and power lines and collapsing several buildings as a powerful line of storms swept across parts of the Northeast. Remarkably, no serious injuries were reported.
Hundreds of bricks shook loose from buildings, trees … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Severe storm tears through Bridgeport, Conn., shredding buildings, toppling trees, power lines.

Celia churns into powerful Category 5 hurricane over open Pacific waters; no threat to land

Celia now powerful Cat 5 hurricane in open Pacific

MIAMI – Hurricane Celia has grown into a power Category 5 storm, but it’s swirling far out over the Pacific Ocean and doesn’t immediately threaten land.
The U.S. Hurricane Center in Miami says Celia was packing winds at 160 mph (260 kph) as it churned up seas Thursday … Read more >>.

Firefighters making progress on northern Arizona forest fire; containment now at 40 percent

Northern Arizona forest fire 40 percent contained

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – Firefighters were making progress Thursday containing a wildfire that has burned more than 23 square miles of scenic northern Arizona forest.
U.S. Forest Service spokesman Willie Begay said the Schultz fire burning near Flagstaff was 40 percent contained after charring 14,800 acres, or more than 23 square …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Teens held for running sex racket in China

BEIJING – Police have detained four teenage girls who allegedly coerced their peers into prostitution in central China’s Henan province.

The detained girls, aged 16 to 17, were among six people detained after police broke up a teenage prostitution ring, Xinhua reported.
The suspected procurer of the teenage girls, Zhang Junli, had turned himself in, … Read more »»».

Emergency crews find bodies of 2 workers at scene of central Kansas grain elevator collapse

2 dead after grain elevator collapses in Kansas

RUSSELL, Kan. – Crews have found the bodies of two workers who were killed when a portion of a grain elevator collapsed in central Kansas, burying them in wheat.
Russell police 911 supervisor Greg Rose said part of one of the Agco Inc. elevators collapsed Thursday afternoon. Russell is …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Emergency crews find bodies of 2 workers at scene of central Kansas grain elevator collapse.

Bomb disguised as gift explodes at Greek public order ministry; kills aide

Bomb rocks Greek law enforcement ministry, 1 dead

ATHENS, Greece – A bomb disguised as a gift exploded inside the Greek law enforcement ministry on Thursday night, killing a close ministerial aide in Greece’s highest profile attack in years.
Public Order Minister Michalis Chryssohoidis, who was in his office a few yards (meters) away from the blast, …. Source article  : Bomb disguised as gift explodes at Greek public order ministry; kills aide.

BP enlists former FEMA chief James Lee Witt to help in Gulf oil spill

BP gets help from former gov’t disaster expert
WASHINGTON – BP says it has enlisted the help of James Lee Witt, the former FEMA director in the Clinton administration who has become known as an expert on disaster response.
Bob Dudley, BP’s new point man for the oil response, says he asked Witt to go … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : BP enlists former FEMA chief James Lee Witt to help in Gulf oil spill.

Over 12,000 vehicles seized in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, June 26 (IANS/WAM) In an effort to prevent accidents in Abu Dhabi, police have seized 12,605 faulty vehicles.

Tyre bursts in faulty vehicles have caused serious accidents leading to the death of 20 people in 2009, especially on highways, the department of traffic and patrol said.
“Seventy-six tyre burst accidents occurred last year across …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Obama’s point man on the Gulf oil spill cleanup will visit the region next week

Cleanup czar to tour Gulf region next week
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama’s point man for the clean up and recovery of the area affected by the Gulf oil spill will tour the region next week.
According to a statement from his office, Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus will begin a five-day visit on … Read more : Obama’s point man on the Gulf oil spill cleanup will visit the region next week.

NATO: US troop dies, Taliban commander, disguised as woman, killed in southern Afghanistan

NATO: US troop dies, Taliban commander killed

KABUL, Afghanistan – A senior Taliban commander disguised as a woman was killed by Afghan and international forces after he opened fire with a pistol and tried to throw a grenade south of the capital Kabul.
NATO reported a U.S. troop died in a roadside bomb attack Saturday in southern …. Original article  : NATO: US troop dies, Taliban commander, disguised as woman, killed in southern Afghanistan.

Tropical weather could be latest blow to containing massive Gulf spill; forecasters watch path

Weather could be latest problem in spill cleanup

NEW ORLEANS – Tropical weather gathering strength in the Caribbean could be the latest bad news for BP crews trying to contain and clean up the massive oil spill in the Gulf, an effort that has been plagued with setbacks for more than two months.
It is still too …. Source  : Tropical weather could be latest blow to containing massive Gulf spill; forecasters watch path.

Honour killing suspects in police custody

NEW DELHI – A court here Saturday sent three men arrested on charges of killing a couple and another woman in a case of suspected honour killing to five days police custody.

Metropolitan Magistrate Satish Kumar gave the ruling after the three – Mandeep Nagar, 23, Ankit Chaudhury, 22, and Nakul Khari, 21 – were presented … Read more >>.

Industry, government spend little on oil spill clean-up technology

Little spent on oil spill cleanup technology

ON BARATARIA BAY, La. – While oil companies have spent billions of dollars to drill deeper and farther out to sea, relatively little money and research have gone into finding new, improved ways to respond to oil spills in deepsea conditions like those in the Gulf of Mexico.
Experts say …. Read the original article  : here.

Nirupama Pathak’s mother denied bail

RANCHI – A Jharkhand court Saturday rejected the bail plea of Sudha Pathak, the mother of Delhi journalist Nirupama Pathak who was found dead in her home April 29.

Additional District Judge Nitynanad Singh in Koderma town rejected the appeal for bail, her lawyer Arun Mishra told IANS over telephone, adding he would move the high …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Crime cloud over Shimla worries government, tourists

SHIMLA – Is the popular hill resort of Shimla, crowded at this time of the year, turning into a crime zone for tourists? There have been two suicides and two murders, all involving tourists, in the past six months.

The alleged suicide by a Chhattisgarh couple who reached this town June 19 is the most recent … Read more : Crime cloud over Shimla worries government, tourists.

6.9 quake hits Solomon Islands

HONG KONG – An earthquake measuring 6.9 on the Richter scale hit Solomon Islands Saturday but there was no reports of casualties.

The quake struck at 1.40 p.m. (0540 GMT) Saturday, Xinhua reported citing the Hong Kong Observatory. The epicentre was determined to be about 220 km southeast of Honiara in Solomon Islands in the Pacific … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 6.9 quake hits Solomon Islands.

Strong quake hits in Pacific near Solomon Islands

Strong quake hits in Pacific near Solomon Islands

HONIARA, Solomon Islands – A powerful earthquake struck underwater off the Solomon Islands, but there was no immediate word of damage and no tsunami alert was issued.
Saturday’s quake had a magnitude of 6.9, the U.S. Geological Survey said. It was centered 35 miles (55 kilometers) west-southwest of San …. Original source  : Strong quake hits in Pacific near Solomon Islands.

10 killed in Brazil accident

Sao Paulo, June 26 (IANS/EFE) At least 10 people, including a pregnant woman, were killed in a Brazilian city when two cars collided with a truck that had overturned a few moments before, police said.

The two cars ran into the overturned truck carrying steel coils and had turned turtle only minutes earlier in Belo Horizonte …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 10 killed in Brazil accident.

Forecasters: Tropical depression in Caribbean headed west; unclear if it will hit oiled Gulf

Tropical depression in Caribbean headed west

MIAMI – The first tropical depression of the Atlantic hurricane season has formed in the Western Caribbean and is headed west, but forecasters can’t yet say if it will pass over the massive oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
Forecasters at the National Hurricane Center in Miami said early Saturday …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Forecasters: Tropical depression in Caribbean headed west; unclear if it will hit oiled Gulf.

Two die in China mine blast

BEIJING – At least two people were killed and 10 injured in an explosion in a coal mine in China’s Ningxia Hui region Saturday, Xinhua reported.

The explosion occurred in the Hongyuan coal mine in Shikong town.
…. Source  : Two die in China mine blast.

Indian remanded in custody for murders in New Zealand

AUCKLAND – An Indian fruit packer indicted for killing a woman and his two-year-old daughter has been remanded to custody and asked to reappear in a New Zealand court next month.

Deepak Nagpal, 23, appeared in the Tauranga District Court Friday for the second time after he was charged with the murder of Anna and …. Read the original article  : Indian remanded in custody for murders in New Zealand.

4 US troops killed in Afghanistan; 11 bodies found in field in south, some beheaded

Bodies found beheaded in Afghanistan; 4 troops die

KABUL, Afghanistan – Four American troops were reported killed and the bodies of 11 Afghan men, some beheaded, were found in rising violence across Afghanistan.
Mohammad Khan, deputy police chief in Uruzgan province, said a villager in the Bagh Char area of Khas Uruzgan district spotted the bodies Friday …. Read the original article  : here.

Two workers killed in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – Two workers were killed and six critically injured when a boiler at a soft drink manufacturing plant exploded in Orissa’s Khordha district, police said Saturday.

The accident took place Friday at the plant of Hindustan Coca Cola Beverages at Khordha town, about 50 km from here.
The two workers succumbed to their injuries … Read more »»».

15 killed in Bihar accident

PATNA – Fifteen people were killed early Saturday when a bus in which they were travelling collided with a truck in Bihar, police said.

Over 10 people were injured after the accident took place near Chenati village in Bihar’s Patna district, a police officer said.
“All the injured have been admitted to a hospital for treatment,” … Original article on : 15 killed in Bihar accident.

Wildfire burning north of Flagstaff now at estimated 15,000 acres but 50 percent contained

Wildfire near Flagstaff now 50 percent contained

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – A wildfire burning in Arizona that threatened homes in Flagstaff and has charred an estimated 15,000 acres has been declared 50 percent contained.
U.S. Forest Service officials said Friday night that full containment of the so-called Schultz fire isn’t expected until at least July 2.
Four air tankers, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Wildfire burning north of Flagstaff now at estimated 15,000 acres but 50 percent contained.

Hurricane Darby still Category 3 storm in the Pacific; Celia continues to weaken

Hurricane Darby still major storm; Celia weaker

MIAMI – Hurricane Darby is still Category 3 strength, making it the second major hurricane of the eastern Pacific season.
The National Hurricane Center in Miami says Darby’s maximum sustained winds Friday night were near 115 mph (185 kph).
The hurricane is located about 265 miles (425 kilometers) southwest of Acapulco, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Hurricane Darby still Category 3 storm in the Pacific; Celia continues to weaken.

Six drug traffickers killed in Mexico

MEXICO CITY – Six drug traffickers were killed and two arrested by the Mexican marine soldiers in a raid in Mexico, media report said.

The shootout began near a customs office on a road that links Matamoros to Brownsville, a city in US state of Texas, after the marines spotted the armed men riding on their … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Six drug traffickers killed in Mexico.

Nepal Terai tense after Hindu leader’s murder

KATHMANDU – Nepal’s main hub for trade with India, Birgunj, simmered with tension Sunday as traders and Hindu groups erupted in protests following the murder of the chief of a newly-formed militant Hindu organisation that had become involved in anti-Maoist vigilante activities.

Kashinath Adhikari, the 45-year-old chief of Hindu Yuva Sangh, was attacked Saturday evening while … Read more >>>.

Tropical storm Alex not aiming at Gulf spill area for now, but change could come rapidly

Alex not aiming at Gulf spill area – for now

NEW ORLEANS – Forecasters say a tropical storm slamming into parts of Mexico isn’t taking aim at the massive Gulf oil spill – for now. Although storms can rapidly change course, the forecast could be a rare piece of good news for crews trying to control … Original article on : Tropical storm Alex not aiming at Gulf spill area for now, but change could come rapidly.

Afghan and NATO officials say airstrike in northern Afghanistan killed local Taliban commander

Northern Afghan airstrike kills 8 militants
KABUL, Afghanistan – A U.S. airstrike killed eight militants including a local Taliban commander in northern Afghanistan, NATO and Afghan officials said Sunday.
The battle against the Taliban in Afghanistan has been expanding increasingly to the whole country, with insurgent cells operating and launching attacks in the west and … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Afghan and NATO officials say airstrike in northern Afghanistan killed local Taliban commander.

Tropical Storm Alex heads for Gulf after drenching Belize, Mexico; could become hurricane

Tropical Storm Alex sets sights on Gulf of Mexico

BELIZE CITY – Tropical Storm Alex headed overland toward the Gulf of Mexico early Sunday, drenching Belize, northern Guatemala and Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula with torrential rains.
Meteorologists project Alex, which made landfall on Belize’s coast late Saturday, will weaken as it passes over the Yucatan Peninsula but will … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Tropical Storm Alex heads for Gulf after drenching Belize, Mexico; could become hurricane.

Floodwaters begin to recede in hard-hit southern China, workers still fixing dike breach

Floodwaters receding in hard-hit southern China

BEIJING – Floodwaters receded in hard-hit southern China on Sunday and workers nearly finished repairing a dike breach that forced the evacuation of 100,000 people.
Torrential rains pummeled a wide swath of China’s south and more than 3 million people had to be evacuated from their homes over the past two …. Original source  : Floodwaters begin to recede in hard-hit southern China, workers still fixing dike breach.

10,000 protesters run riot at G-20 summit (Lead)

TORONTO – Thousands of protesters rampaged through Canada’s largest city and its financial capital, unleashing an unprecedented fury of violence as world leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, gathered here for the G-20 summit Saturday.

Four police cruisers were set on fire, storefronts smashed, windowpanes sprayed with anti-police and anti-G-20 slogans as more than …. Original source  : 10,000 protesters run riot at G-20 summit (Lead).

American service member killed by bomb attack in southern Afghanistan

US service member killed in Afghanistan
KABUL, Afghanistan – The U.S. military says an American service member has been killed by a bomb in southern Afghanistan.

U.S. forces spokesman Col. Wayne Shanks said Sunday the American died Saturday. He did not provide further details because family members had not been notified.
June has been one of the deadliest … Read : American service member killed by bomb attack in southern Afghanistan.

Sporadic violence as 10,000 protesters march in Toronto

TORONTO – There was sporadic violence in the streets of Canada’s largest city Saturday as at least 10,000 otherwise peaceful demonstrators fumed at the world’s 20 leading powers gathered for a summit on the global economy.

Dozens of windows were smashed in the city centre and at least three police cars were set on fire. Police …. Read the original article  : Sporadic violence as 10,000 protesters march in Toronto.

Boats ferrying tourists collide near popular Thai beach; 42 hurt, 2 missing

Tourist boats collide in Thailand, 42 injured

BANGKOK – Forty-two passengers were injured and two were missing after two boats carrying Thai and foreign tourists collided in the Gulf of Thailand on the way to a popular island beach party, police said Sunday.
The speedboats were ferrying tourists to Pha-ngan island for a “full moon” party, a … Read : Boats ferrying tourists collide near popular Thai beach; 42 hurt, 2 missing.

District attorney: 4 found stabbed to death in home in northeastern Pa.; suspect in custody

DA: 4 found fatally stabbed in Pa.; man in custody

NORTHAMPTON, Pa. – Four people were found stabbed to death Saturday in a house in northeastern Pennsylvania and a suspect was in custody, authorities said.
Police discovered the bodies after responding to a car crash about a half-mile from the house, Northampton County District Attorney John Morganelli …. Original source  : District attorney: 4 found stabbed to death in home in northeastern Pa.; suspect in custody.

News report: Boats ferrying tourists collide at popular Thai beach; 39 hurt, 2 missing

Tourist boats collide in Thailand, 39 injured

BANGKOK – Thirty-nine passengers were injured and two were missing after two boats carrying Thai and foreign tourists to a popular island beach party collided in the Gulf of Thailand, a news report said Sunday.
The boats were ferrying tourists to Pha-ngan island to attend a “full moon” party, a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Stop drug trafficking to wipe out poverty: UN

UNITED NATIONS – Fighting drug abuse, trafficking and other social evils must be parts of the battle against poverty, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon has said.

“Our work to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and fight drugs must go hand-in-hand. In seeking to eradicate illicit crops, we must also work to wipe out poverty,” Ban said … Read more : Stop drug trafficking to wipe out poverty: UN.

Two Pakistani sentenced to death in Yemen

SANAA – Two Pakistanis were sentenced to death by a Yemeni court Saturday after being convicted of drug trafficking, state media reported.

“Salim Dawod Abdulrahim and Imam Bakhsh Eyepub Yakoub received death penalty after the court convicted them of smuggling 1,695 kg of hashish into Yemen through its coastal territories,” official Saba news agency cited the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Two Pakistani sentenced to death in Yemen.

Children feared among multiple dead in house fire in upstate New York

Children feared among several victims of NY fire

FORT EDWARD, N.Y. – Children were feared to be among the victims of a house fire that killed several people in am upstate New York village on Saturday, authorities said.
The blaze happened about 6:05 a.m. in a single-family home in Fort Edward, about 45 miles north of the …. Read the original article  : Children feared among multiple dead in house fire in upstate New York.

Ind. auction for ex-financier who tried to fake death in plane crash, hid motorcycle to flee

Auction for Ind. financier who tried to fake death

INDIANAPOLIS – Auctioneers are selling off items owned by a former Indiana money manager who tried to fake his death in a plane crash, including the motorcycle he used to flee after parachuting from his plane.
Hundreds of people turned out as Marcus Schrenker’s belongings went up for … Read more »»».

Tropical Storm Alex drenches Caribbean coast of Belize, Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula

Tropical Storm Alex soaks Belize, Mexico’s Yucatan

BELIZE CITY – Tropical Storm Alex made landfall late Saturday on Belize’s coast, where hundreds of tourists and residents fled low-lying islands ahead of the storm’s arrival.
Besides Belize, Alex’s torrential rains were drenching Guatemala and Mexico’s resort-studded Caribbean coast, where beachgoers were warned to stay out of the water …. Original source  : Tropical Storm Alex drenches Caribbean coast of Belize, Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.

Some oil spill events from Saturday, June 26, 2010

Some oil spill events on Saturday, June 26, 2010
A summary of events Saturday, June 26, Day 67 of the Gulf of Mexico oil spill that began with the April 20 explosion and fire on the drilling rig Deepwater Horizon, owned by Transocean Ltd. and leased by BP PLC, which is in charge of … Read more >>>.

Girl, 6, scratched, bitten by coyotes who attacked as she played in front yard in NYC suburb

Girl, 6, scratched, bitten by coyotes in NY suburb

RYE, N.Y. – Police say a 6-year-old girl was scratched and bitten by a pair of coyotes who charged her as she played with friends in the front yard of her suburban New York City home.
The girl was treated and released from the hospital. She had bites … Read more >>>.

Tropical weather could put BP’s oil containment system out of commission for a week or more

Tropical weather is new reason to worry in Gulf

NEW ORLEANS – The logistics of containing the oil spewing into the Gulf of Mexico are mind-boggling even in ideal conditions. Add a tropical storm like the one swirling in the Caribbean and things get even more complicated.
Any system with winds over 46 mph could force BP …. Read the original article  : Tropical weather could put BP’s oil containment system out of commission for a week or more.

Obama, South Korean leader say North Korea must face consequences for alleged ship sinking

Obama, Lee criticize North Korea on ship sinking
TORONTO – President Barack Obama said Saturday that North Korea must be “held to account” for its alleged sinking of a South Korean warship, a tough statement of support for an ally made at its leader’s side.
After talks with South Korean President Lee Myung-Bak on the …. Original article  : Obama, South Korean leader say North Korea must face consequences for alleged ship sinking.