Government would look into ULIP ban issue: Ashok Chawla

NEW DELHI – Finance Secretary Ashok Chawla on Monday said the ministry would look into the orders of the two regulators Securities and Exchange Bank of India (SEBI) and Insurance Regulator and Development Authority (IRDA) on equity linked products sold …. Source article  : Government would look into ULIP ban issue: Ashok Chawla.

Study: Airlines did a better job getting passengers and their bags to destinations in 2009

Airlines did a better job for passengers in 2009

WASHINGTON – Fewer passengers boarded planes last year, but those who did were generally treated better than in the past.
Planes were more likely to land on time and bags less likely to get lost in 2009, according to an annual analysis of airline quality by private researchers.
As … Original article on : Study: Airlines did a better job getting passengers and their bags to destinations in 2009.

PROMISES, PROMISES: Much challenged health care law mirrors Obama 2008 campaign promises

PROMISES, PROMISES: Health plan maps Obama pledges
WASHINGTON – The nation may be divided over the wisdom of President Barack Obama’s big new health care law, but it largely delivers on more than 30 specific promises he made as a candidate.
Americans basically got what the majority voted for when they elected Obama …. Source article  : PROMISES, PROMISES: Much challenged health care law mirrors Obama 2008 campaign promises.

Issue of Rs.10/- denomination banknotes with ‘M’ Inset letter in both numbering panels in Mahatma Gandhi Series ??? 2005 bearing the signature of Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor

The Reserve Bank of India will shortly issue Rs.10/- denomination banknotes with ‘M’ inset letter in both numbering panels in Mahatma Gandhi Series – 2005 bearing the signature of Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor. Except for the change in the inset letter, the design of these notes to be issued … Read : Issue of Rs.10/- denomination banknotes with ‘M’ Inset letter in both numbering panels in Mahatma Gandhi Series ??? 2005 bearing the signature of Dr. D. Subbarao, Governor.

California loses dairy farms as Iowa, Texas, other states lure farmers with less regulation

States woo Calif. dairymen with less regulation

DES MOINES, Iowa – The number of California dairies has plummeted by more than 500 in the past decade as farmers move to states promising lower costs and simpler regulations.
Some are willing to leave California because high land costs often mean they can’t grow their own grain. Others complain …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : California loses dairy farms as Iowa, Texas, other states lure farmers with less regulation.

Oil rises above $85 in Asia as Greece bailout plan boosts euro

Oil rises to $85 as Europe offers Greece bailout

SINGAPORE – Oil prices rose above $85 a barrel Monday in Asia after a massive loan offer to Greece by European countries helped weaken the dollar, making crude cheaper for investors holding euros.
Benchmark crude for May delivery was up 50 cents to $85.42 a barrel at midday …. Read the original article  : here.

AP survey: No quick rebound in pillars of Americans’ financial security _ home values and jobs

AP survey: Recovery to remain sluggish into 2011

WASHINGTON – The pillars of Americans’ financial security – jobs and home values – will stay shaky well into 2011, according to an Associated Press survey of leading economists.
The findings of the new AP Economy Survey, released Monday, point to an economic recovery that will move slowly and … Read : AP survey: No quick rebound in pillars of Americans’ financial security _ home values and jobs.

With travel down, more air flights arrived on time in 2009, fewer bags lost, complaints drop

Study: Flying went smoother for passengers in 2009

WASHINGTON – Some things did go right for airline passengers last year: Planes were more likely to land on time and bags less likely to get lost.
As a result, passengers reported fewer complaints in 2009 even while cash-strapped airlines reduced flight schedules and charged for everything from bags …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Premium of less than a cent a week: Micro-insurance plans extend health care to Africa’s poor

Micro-insurance plans extend health care in Africa

KISAJU, Kenya – Kenyan student Shadrack Silipo had a heart operation five years ago, the sort of surgery that often bankrupts families in Africa.
Silipo’s parents normally would have paid by selling off land – the same green acres that form the inheritance for their eight children. But Silipo’s father, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Premium of less than a cent a week: Micro-insurance plans extend health care to Africa’s poor.

Money Market Operations as on April 09, 2010

… Read this article on Gaea Times at : Money Market Operations as on April 09, 2010.

Asian markets advance after Wall Street gains, European pledges to Greece

Asian markets rise in early trading
TOKYO – Most Asian stock markets rose in early trading Monday after a strong finish Friday on Wall Street and easing worries about Greece’s financial health.

Japan’s Nikkei 225 stock average jumped 1 percent to 11,314.42 , and Australia’s benchmark rose 0.6 percent to 4,981.80.
Markets in New Zealand, Singapore and Taiwan …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Asian markets advance after Wall Street gains, European pledges to Greece.

Google chief executive tells media group that newspapers will find new business models online

Google CEO says newspapers can make money online

WASHINGTON – Google Inc. Chief Executive Eric Schmidt says he is confident that newspapers will find new ways to make money online by harnessing the vast reach of the Internet.
Media executives have accused Google of draining readers and advertising from newspapers online. But speaking Sunday night to open …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Google chief executive tells media group that newspapers will find new business models online.

Hungary’s center-right Fidesz gets landslide in national elections, far-right Jobbik is 3rd

Center-right Fidesz wins big in Hungary elections
BUDAPEST, Hungary – Hungary’s center-right party reclaimed the right to govern on Sunday, winning over 50 percent of the vote and handing the ruling Socialists a humiliating defeat. Extreme rightists backed by black clad paramilitary troops took more than 15 percent to come in third.
While widely …. Source  : Hungary’s center-right Fidesz gets landslide in national elections, far-right Jobbik is 3rd.

Hungary’s center-right leads in elections, Socialists in 2nd ahead of far-right

Hungary’s center-right leads voting, far-right 3rd
BUDAPEST, Hungary – Hungary’s center-right Fidesz party took a commanding lead in the first round of parliamentary elections on Sunday, while Jobbik, a far-right party with an anti-Gypsy and extreme nationalist agenda, was a strong third just behind the governing Socialists.
With 99.2 percent of the first-round votes counted, … Read more >>>.

Questions about nuclear stockpile, Russian attitude lead senators to question fate of treaty

Senators question future of US-Soviet nuclear pact
WASHINGTON – The new U.S.-Russian nuclear arms treaty may have a problem getting the vote of at least one independent senator, as well as Republican lawmakers.
Sen. Joe Lieberman, a Connecticut independent, says that America’s nuclear arsenal must be modernized. That might be difficult if President Barack Obama …. Original article  : Questions about nuclear stockpile, Russian attitude lead senators to question fate of treaty.

Incinerator project burns up Pa. capital’s cash as some officials raise scary word: Bankruptcy

Incinerator project burns up Pa. capital’s cash

HARRISBURG, Pa. – This capital city was near total collapse three decades ago – its department stores, theaters and trolleys were gone, replaced by vacant buildings and streets devoid of any nightlife.
A huge effort, thanks partly to an energetic mayor, brought the Susquehanna River city of 47,000 back from …. Original article  : Incinerator project burns up Pa. capital’s cash as some officials raise scary word: Bankruptcy.

‘Benefit corporations’ legislation puts ‘people, planet, profit’ on bottom line

States move to let firms pursue social mission

MONTPELIER, Vt. – Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield wish a bill making its way through the Vermont Legislature had been law decades ago.
If they’d been allowed to set up as a benefit corporation their Ben & Jerry’s Homemade Inc., the Vermont-based super premium ice cream maker, they might … Read : ‘Benefit corporations’ legislation puts ‘people, planet, profit’ on bottom line.

Euro governments offer Greece ???30 billion in loans this year if needed to ease debt crisis

Euro governments offer Greece ???30 billion backstop

BRUSSELS – Trying again to halt a debt crisis that has hammered the euro, fellow eurozone governments tossed struggling Greece a financial lifeline Sunday, saying they would make ???30 billion in loans available this year alone – if Athens asks for the money.
The International Monetary Fund stands ready to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Euro governments offer Greece ???30 billion in loans this year if needed to ease debt crisis.

Euro governments offer Greece euro30 billion in loans this year if needed to ease debt crisis

Euro governments offer Greece euro30 billion backstop

BRUSSELS – Trying again to halt a debt crisis that has hammered the euro, fellow eurozone governments tossed struggling Greece a financial lifeline Sunday, saying they would make euro30 billion in loans available this year alone – if Athens asks for the money.
The International Monetary Fund stands ready to … Read more : Euro governments offer Greece euro30 billion in loans this year if needed to ease debt crisis.

Mirant, RRI Energy merge in $1.61 billion deal to create one of the largest US power producers

Mirant, RRI Energy combining in $1.61B deal

ATLANTA – Energy providers Mirant Corp. and RRI Energy Inc. said Sunday they are combining in a $1.61 billion stock-swap deal, renaming the company and creating a utility powerhouse that will become one of the nation’s largest independent power producers.
The combined company, which will have a market capitalization of … Read : Mirant, RRI Energy merge in $1.61 billion deal to create one of the largest US power producers.

Canara HSBC Oriental Life to infuse Rs.300 crore

CHENNAI – The Canara HSBC Oriental Bank of Commerce Life Insurance Company has decided to infuse Rs.300 crore this fiscal for operational expansion.

Post-infusion, the company’s equity will shoot up to Rs.925 crore, the company said Tuesday.
Canara HSBC Oriental Life is a three-way joint venture between Canara Bank, Oriental Bank of Commerce and HSBC Insurance …. Original source  : Canara HSBC Oriental Life to infuse Rs.300 crore.

Dubai records over $14 bn worth of direct exports in 2009

Dubai, April 13 (IANS/WAM) Dubai has recorded direct exports worth 52.4 billion UAE dirhams (over $14 billion) in 2009, up by 22.9 percent compared to 2008, while imports and re-exports declined by 27.9 and 8.6 percent, respectively.

The statistics were published in the Dubai Export Monitor 2010 by Dubai Export Development Corporation (EDC) Monday. … Original article on : Dubai records over $14 bn worth of direct exports in 2009.

Japanese Airline Amakusa adopts IBS solution

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Japanese airline Amakusa has implemented city-based IBS Software Services’ IT solution “iFly Res” for its passenger reservation system, the IBS group said Tuesday.

V.K. Mathews, IBS chairman, said the company’s new generation solutions help airlines break away from legacy systems and cut their cost of operations, enhance efficiency and improve revenue.
“Amakusa’s confidence in … Original article on : Japanese Airline Amakusa adopts IBS solution.

Infosys revenue to grow in double digit in 2011 (Second Lead)

BANGALORE – Emerging from a year of worst economic slump and technology meltdown, Infosys Technologies Tuesday projected double digit revenue growth for fiscal 2010-11 despite currency volatility and higher wage bill.

India’s second largest IT bellwether said it expected its consolidated income to grow 10 percent on average to Rs.25,017 crore (Rs.250 billion) by this fiscal … Read more : Infosys revenue to grow in double digit in 2011 (Second Lead).

India will grow 8.2 per cent in 2010: ADB

MANILA – India will grow 8.2 percent in 2010 and 8.7 percent in 2010 but rising inflation will bog the country’s policy makers, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) said Tuesday.

An improving global environment, rising private consumption and investment are likely to underpin growth over the next two years, said the multilateral lending agency in … Original article on : India will grow 8.2 per cent in 2010: ADB.

Union official: Andy Stern to step down as president of Service Employees International Union

Union official: Stern to leave Service Employees
WASHINGTON – One of nation’s most politically powerful – and polarizing – union leaders is preparing to step down from his post.
Andy Stern, president of the 2.2 million-member Service Employees International Union, plans to resign, a senior union official told employees in an e-mail on Monday.
The message …. Original article  : Union official: Andy Stern to step down as president of Service Employees International Union.

Missouri billionaire Stan Kroenke makes surprise bid to purchase 100 percent of Rams

Billionaire Kroenke to try and buy rest of Rams

ST. LOUIS – Missouri billionaire Stan Kroenke has decided to exercise his matching rights and try to purchase the remaining 60 percent share of the St. Louis Rams.
Kroenke made the announcement late Monday, the deadline for him to make this decision.
Illinois businessman Shahid Khan reached agreement with … Read more >>.

SPIN METER: Lawmakers haul in ‘pork’ while blasting government spending

SPIN METER: Congress’ pork: advocacy or hypocrisy?
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – It’s early on a Monday in north Alabama’s “space city,” and Sen. Richard Shelby is bashing Washington at a packed town hall meeting in the cavernous U.S. Space and Rocket Center.
“We’re spending a lot of money that we don’t have,” the veteran Republican tells …. Read the original article  : SPIN METER: Lawmakers haul in ‘pork’ while blasting government spending.

GOP candidate hopes contest for open US House seat is referendum on Obama, health care

GOP hopes for upset in Fla. US House election
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – Republican Ed Lynch hopes public disdain for President Barack Obama’s health care plan and low congressional approval ratings will help him upset his Democratic opponent in Tuesday’s special U.S. House election.
The South Florida contest between Lynch and Democratic state … Original source on Gaea Times at : GOP candidate hopes contest for open US House seat is referendum on Obama, health care.

Asian Development Bank: Regional growth to rebound to 7.5 percent, economies need to adjust

ADB: Asia economies rebound, need to adjust policy

MANILA, Philippines – The Asian Development Bank raised its regional growth forecast this year from 6.6 percent to 7.5 percent on Tuesday but warned that governments need to adjust policies to avoid shocks that could hamper their recovery.
China is forecast to grow by 9.6 percent, after last year’s … Original source on Gaea Times at : Asian Development Bank: Regional growth to rebound to 7.5 percent, economies need to adjust.

Peace with Israel brings dividends, but Jordan still trying to spread the wealth

Business with Israel pays off in Jordan
IRBID, Jordan – Manager Rami Kurdi snapped off a quick celebratory salute to his workers as the factory’s bell rang, marking the completion of the day’s 1,000th tracksuit in record time.

For Kurdi and the employees at the Century Standard Textile plant, one of several that manufacture clothing for top …. Source article  : Peace with Israel brings dividends, but Jordan still trying to spread the wealth.

Sign free trade pact with India: Dhaka economists

DHAKA – Bangladesh should sign a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India, two Bangladeshi economists have recommended.

They cited the success of India’s FTA with Sri Lanka and the latter’s FTA with Pakistan at a seminar here Monday.
Khandaker Ibrahim Khaled, former deputy governor of Bangladesh Bank, and Selim Raihan, editor of Bangladesh Economic Outlook, … Original article on : Sign free trade pact with India: Dhaka economists.

Infosys to pay 300 percent final dividend to investors

BANGALORE – Recovering from a worst economic slump, a resilient Infosys Technologies Ltd Tuesday proposed to pay a final dividend of Rs.15 per share or 300 percent on par value of Rs.5 per share for fiscal 2009-10.

In a regulatory filing, the IT bellwether said its board of directors had recommended a final dividend of Rs.15 … Read more >>.

Goan origin Fernandes has pan-India aspiration for his AirAsia

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian no frills carrier AirAsia, owned by a prominent entrepreneur of Goan origin Anthony “Tony” Francis Fernandes, will add six more flights to India this year to tap the growing traffic.

Flights from Penang to Kolkata will start April 28 and from Kuala Lumpur to Mumbai May 6, followed by Kuala Lumpur-Chennai, Kuala … Original source on Gaea Times at : Goan origin Fernandes has pan-India aspiration for his AirAsia.

Separatist shutdown cripples life in Srinagar

SRINAGAR – Life in Srinagar ground to a halt Tuesday in response to a shutdown called by the hardline faction of Jammu and Kashmir’s Hurriyat Conference against the conviction of six Kashmiris in New Delhi’s Lajpat Nagar bombing case.

Public transport was off the roads and shops, educational institutions, banks and other business establishments were closed …. Read the original article  : here.

Others see growth in Bangladesh, local experts don’t

DHAKA – Global financial and credit rating agencies have drawn a positive picture of Bangladesh’s economy, but domestic experts see signs of stagnation and slowdown in investment.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) Monday said Bangladesh’s economy would grow by 5 percent in the current fiscal because of sluggish export growth.
Credit rating agency Moody’s Investors Service … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Others see growth in Bangladesh, local experts don’t.

Kazakh president invites Manmohan to regional summit

WASHINGTON – Kazakhstan, the oil-rich Central Asian country, has offered India a new oil block and invited Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to attend a regional summit it is co-hosting with Turkey in June.

Manmohan Singh met Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev Sunday and discussed a host of issues, including greater cooperation in hydrocarbons and infrastructure.
Nazarbayev … Read more : Kazakh president invites Manmohan to regional summit.

Infosys projects double digit growth for fiscal 2011

BANGALORE – Infosys Technologies Ltd Tuesday projected a double digit growth for new fiscal (2010-11) on signs of global economic recovery and robust growth in IT spending.

In a regulatory filing, the IT bellwether said it expected its consolidated income to grow by 10 percent on average to Rs.25,017 crore (Rs.250 billion) by this fiscal end …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Asian shares fall as investors eye first quarter GDP, US company earnings

Asian shares fall as yearlong rally takes breather

SINGAPORE – Asian stock markets mostly fell Tuesday as investors questioned whether the global economic recovery can support further gains to the yearlong equities rally.
Japan’s Nikkei 225 led decliners, down 0.8 percent to 11,161.23. Australia fell 0.7 percent, Malaysia slid 0.4 percent, India dropped 0.3 percent and Singapore … Read : Asian shares fall as investors eye first quarter GDP, US company earnings.

Infosys net up four percent for fiscal 2010

BANGALORE – Infosys Technologies Ltd posted a net profit of Rs.6,219 crore (Rs.62.19 billion) for fiscal 2009-10, registering a marginal increase of four percent year-on-year (YoY) from Rs.5,975 crore (Rs.59.75 billion).

In a regulatory filing Tuesday, the IT bellwether said its consolidated income for the entire fiscal under review (FY 2010) grew by 4.84 percent to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Infosys net up four percent for fiscal 2010.

Chhattisgarh to invest Rs.2,000 crore on infrastructure

RAIPUR – Chhattisgarhs ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will invest Rs.2,000 crore on infrastructure in Maoist-infested Bastar region, Chief Minister Raman Singh said Wednesday.

“The government will invest Rs.2,000 crore during the next three years to boost infrastructure in Naxal-hit Bastar region,” Singh told reporters.
He said the government has formed a committee headed by … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chhattisgarh to invest Rs.2,000 crore on infrastructure.

Human chain in Bangladesh to demand dredging of Padma river

DHAKA – Villagers backed by several non-government organisations and environmentalists formed a human chain to demand early dredging of the silted Padma river, one of Bangladeshs main river systems.

Residents of Godagari sub-district in Rajshahi, bordering Indias West Bengal, formed a human chain and held a rally demanding that the river should be dredged immediately …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Human chain in Bangladesh to demand dredging of Padma river.

2 new laws in Neb. bar later-term abortions, require screenings for women seeking procedure

New laws in Neb. add restrictions on abortions

LINCOLN, Neb. – Two first-of-their-kind laws in Nebraska put new restrictions on abortion, including one that uses a new legal rationale for a ban on later-term abortions.
That law bars the procedure at and after 20 weeks of pregnancy based on the assertion that fetuses can feel pain at …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 2 new laws in Neb. bar later-term abortions, require screenings for women seeking procedure.

More aboard! Amtrak studies long-distance route improvements to attract more riders, money

More aboard! Amtrak weighs long route improvements
COLUMBUS, Ohio – In many states, travelers who take Amtrak’s long-distance trains for vacations or out-of-state business trips board in the middle of the night and return home from such cities as Chicago or New York City at times that are just as inconvenient.
But some improvements are … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : More aboard! Amtrak studies long-distance route improvements to attract more riders, money.

Markets to remain close on Dr. Ambedkar’s birth anniversary

MUMBAI – The Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), the National Stock Exchange (NSE), forex, money and oilseeds markets will remain closed on Wednesday on the 119th birth anniversary of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar.

In the international market, the prices of Japanese share opened higher, with the benchmark Nikkei-225 index … Original article on : Markets to remain close on Dr. Ambedkar’s birth anniversary.

Senate Democrats say they can beat GOP challenges to jobless bill, extend benefits through May

Senate Dems say jobless benefits bill on track

WASHINGTON – A measure to restore eligibility for the jobless to receive up to 99 weeks of unemployment checks appears on track despite objections from Republicans concerned about its $18 billion cost.
Democrats are also seeking to extend those benefits through Memorial Day instead of risking another cutoff in [..] Read the original article: here.

Parity for pedalers? Not everything is smooth cycling for LaHood’s bike, walking policy

Transportation’s bicycle policy hits potholes

WASHINGTON – Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, a weekend bicyclist, might consider keeping his head down and his helmet on. A backlash is brewing over his new bicycling policy.
LaHood says the government is going to give bicycling – and walking, too – the same importance as automobiles in transportation planning and the …. Original article  : Parity for pedalers? Not everything is smooth cycling for LaHood’s bike, walking policy.

Indian IT major Infoys bags three-year Microsoft outsourcing deal

MELBOURNE – India’s Infosys Technologies has bagged a three-year IT outsourcing deal with technology giant Microsoft that covers 104 countries.
Infosys will manage Microsoft’s global internal IT services including helpdesk, desk-side services, IT infrastructure and applications support, reports The Australian.

The value of the deal was not disclosed, but analysts believe it could be worth more than …. Read the original article  : here.

Infosys net profit grows 2.21 pct in quarter four results

BANGALORE – Infosys Technologies, a software services exporter posted 2.21 percent growth in net profit at rupees 16.17 million for the fourth quarter ending March 31, 2010.

S D Shibulal, Chief Operating Officer, Infosys, Bangalore … Read more »».

Meat, chicken farmers await new antitrust rules expected to be toughest since Great Depression

Meat, poultry industries await new antitrust rules

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Federal regulators are set to release the most sweeping antitrust rules covering the meat industry in decades, potentially altering the balance of power between meat companies and the farmers who raise their animals.
Activists, farmers and meat industry officials have been anxiously awaiting the new rules, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Indian CEOs enjoy highest approval, says survey

LOS ANGELES – Executives in India have the highest faith in their CEOs and general corporate leadership, says a survey of 13 major nations.

Executives in China, Brazil and Russia also have much more faith in their CEOs and general corporate leadership than their counterparts in the US, Canada and Britain, says the survey released … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Indian CEOs enjoy highest approval, says survey.

Remittances to El Salvador rise 8.7 percent in March

San Salvador, April 14 (IANS/EFE) Remittances sent by Salvadorans living abroad – mostly in the US – rose 8.7 percent in March, compared to the same month in 2009, to $343.2 million, El Salvador’s Central Bank reported.

“This is first positive rate observed since October 2008,” the Central Bank said.
Remittances last month were $27.2 million …. Source  : Remittances to El Salvador rise 8.7 percent in March.

Haitians face acute oil shortage

PORT OF PRINCE – Haitians have been facing an acute shortage of petroleum fuel due to the delay in supply of oil to the country.

The government has called an emergency meeting to discuss ways to cope with the lack of gasoline and set a limit on sale of fuel worth $25 to each vehicle. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Asian markets mostly higher on strong Intel results, soaring Singapore economy

Asian markets mostly rise on strong Intel results

SINGAPORE – Stocks mostly rose in Asia on Wednesday on investors optimism that better-than-expected first quarter results from Intel Corp. will usher in a strong earnings season.
Singapore’s benchmark stock index led gainers, advancing 1.1 percent after the government said the economy grew an annualized 32 percent in the …. Original article  : Asian markets mostly higher on strong Intel results, soaring Singapore economy.

Glendale City Council approves Reinsdorf group’s Coyotes proposal, votes down 2nd group

Glendale council OKs Reinsdorf’s Coyotes proposal

GLENDALE, Ariz. – The Glendale City Council on Tuesday approved a proposed arena lease agreement submitted by a group headed by Chicago sports mogul Jerry Reinsdorf that is seeking to buy the Phoenix Coyotes.
The council also acted on a second proposal, rejecting a plan submitted by Ice Edge Holdings, a …. Read the original article  : Glendale City Council approves Reinsdorf group’s Coyotes proposal, votes down 2nd group.

Oil rises above $84 in Asia as stock market gains help break 5-day losing streak

Oil rises above $84, breaking 5-day losing streak

SINGAPORE – Oil prices rose above $84 a barrel Wednesday in Asia, breaking a five-day slide, as rising global stock markets boosted crude investor optimism.
Benchmark crude for May delivery was up 17 cents to $84.22 a barrel at late afternoon Singapore time in electronic trading on the New …. Original article  : Oil rises above $84 in Asia as stock market gains help break 5-day losing streak.

Recession is holding down prices but households also experiencing weakest wage growth in years

Even with low inflation households still squeezed

WASHINGTON – The deep recession has caused inflation to all but melt away. The problem is that the same severe downturn has also translated into weak income growth.
Economists say it is no wonder that consumer confidence is at such low levels. Americans’ pocketbooks are being squeezed, even though inflation … Read more »».

Fed boss to face lawmakers’ questions on rebound’s staying power, relief on high unemployment

Fed boss has bittersweet message on recovery, jobs

WASHINGTON – Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke goes to Capitol Hill on Wednesday with a bittersweet message: The economic recovery is taking hold but won’t be strong enough to quickly drive down unemployment.
Bernanke’s out-of-the box thinking during the 2008 financial crisis helped prevent the Great Recession from turning …. Source article  : Fed boss to face lawmakers’ questions on rebound’s staying power, relief on high unemployment.

Watchdog panel says Obama plan to ease foreclosure crisis does too little, comes too late

Watchdog: Obama foreclosure plan leaves many out
WASHINGTON – A watchdog panel overseeing the financial bailouts says the Obama administration’s flagship mortgage aid program lags well behind the foreclosure crisis and leaves too many families out.
The Congressional Oversight Panel says in a report released Wednesday that the administration projects only …. Original article  : Watchdog panel says Obama plan to ease foreclosure crisis does too little, comes too late.

Chavez urges militia fighters to be ready to defend Venezuela’s socialist government

Chavez raises sword before militia loyalists

CARACAS, Venezuela – Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez urged thousands of gun-toting militia troops Tuesday to be ready to fight for his socialist government, telling them that opponents may be plotting to oust or kill him.
Chavez rallied the civilian militia at an outdoor speech while marking the anniversary of a failed …. Original article  : Chavez urges militia fighters to be ready to defend Venezuela’s socialist government.

EU economy commissioner says Greece will not default on debt, warns of eurozone deflation

EU official says Greece will not default on debt

BRUSSELS – The European Union’s economy commissioner says Greece will not default on its mounting debt.
Olli Rehn told a Thursday conference that “default is not an issue. There will be no default.”
Financial markets are charging higher interest rates for Greek bonds because they believe the country may … Original article on : EU economy commissioner says Greece will not default on debt, warns of eurozone deflation.

Food inflation drops marginally to 17.22 percent

NEW DELHI – India’s annual food inflation dropped marginally to 17.22 percent for the week ended April 3 from 17.7 percent a week before even as prices of milk, fruits and lentils rose during the period under review, data showed Thursday.

Data on the wholesale price index released by the commerce and industry ministry showed the [..] Read the original article: here.

Orissa seeks neighbours’ help to check illegal mining

BHUBANESWAR/RANCHI – Orissa has sought cooperation of neighbouring states to check illegal mining and proposed a joint task force with Jharkhand to combat the practice.

“Illegal mining is going on in all mineral-rich states. All such states should jointly work to prevent it,” Orissa’s Steel and Mines Minister Raghunath Mohanty told IANS Thursday.
Chief …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Orissa seeks neighbours’ help to check illegal mining.

Tipu’s sword fetches 500,000 pounds in auction

LONDON – Seven years after Indian liqour baron Vijay Mallya bought a sword of Tipu Sultan, a majestic sabre of the Mysore king fetched 505,250 pounds at a Sotheby’s auction here.

The 200-year-old sword was estimated to go under the hammer for 50,000-70,000 pounds. It eventually sold Wednesday at nearly 10 times that estimate.
According …. Read the original article  : Tipu’s sword fetches 500,000 pounds in auction.

Triveni in joint venture with GE to produce steam turbines

MUMBAI – U.S. multinational General Electric’s energy arm and Indian engineering firm Triveni Thursday announced a joint venture, GE Triveni, to manufacture, sell and service steam turbines of 30-100 MW capacity in India.

“GE Oil & Gas, through one of its affiliates (GE Pacific Mauritius) and Triveni Engineering have signed an agreement to design, manufacture, supply, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Triveni in joint venture with GE to produce steam turbines.

Oil hovered below $85 as investors eye Asian economic growth, US demand recovery

Oil hovered below $85 amid Asian, US demand growth

SINGAPORE – Oil prices hovered below $85 a barrel Thursday in Asia amid signs global crude demand is growing.
Benchmark crude for May delivery was down 2 cents to $85.82 a barrel at late afternoon Singapore time in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange. The contract … Original source on Gaea Times at : Oil hovered below $85 as investors eye Asian economic growth, US demand recovery.

X-Axis: The Indian way of doing business

WASHINGTON – A uniquely ‘Indian way’ of doing business, which has fuelled an economy that even in perilous global times remains a dynamo, is essentially based on a simple philosophy – “think in English and act in Indian”, say four Wharton professors.

The professors of management at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania have …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Tea party leaders try to keep tax day rallies from portraying image of extremists

Tea party leaders anxious about extremists
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Organizers of tax-day tea parties are preparing for their biggest day of the year Thursday, as thousands of demonstrators participate in local rallies against high taxes and big government spending. But the leaders are striving to keep the rallies from presenting another image: one … Original article on : Tea party leaders try to keep tax day rallies from portraying image of extremists.

Sensex gives up morning gains

MUMBAI – A key Indian equities index gave up its morning gains and was ruling flat in afternoon trade Thursday.

The 30-scrip sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) opened at 17,804.55 points and was ruling at 17,839.36 points, up 0.1 percent from its previous close at 17,821.96 points.
At the National …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Danone says strong European demand for dairy goods drove 8.3 percent gain in 1st quarter sales

Danone reports 8.3 percent rise in 1Q sales

PARIS – French dairy and bottled water company Groupe Danone SA on Thursday reported strong growth in first quarter sales as demand for its yogurts in France and across Europe helped offset consumers’ switch to lower priced options.
The Paris-based maker of Evian mineral water and Activia yogurt reported …. Original article  : Danone says strong European demand for dairy goods drove 8.3 percent gain in 1st quarter sales.

Wharton management gurus sing India’s success mantra

WASHINGTON – A uniquely ‘India way of doing business’, which has fuelled an economy that even in perilous global times remains a dynamo, is essentially based on a simple philosophy – “think in English and act in Indian”, say four US professors.

The professors of management at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania have … Original article on : Wharton management gurus sing India’s success mantra.

Punjab power board workers on strike, security deployed

CHANDIGARH – Over 65,000 employees of the Punjab State Electricity Board (PSEB) went on a two-day strike from Thursday midnight leading to tension in several parts of the state and heavy deployment of police and paramilitary personnel to ward off trouble.

The administration also imposed orders prohibiting people from gathering in groups and carrying weapons in … Read : Punjab power board workers on strike, security deployed.

India’s annual inflation rises 9.9 percent in March

NEW DELHI – Driven primarily by higher food prices, India’s annual rate of inflation, based on the wholesale prices index, went up marginally to 9.9 percent in March from 9.89 percent a month ago, official data showed Thursday.

The annual inflation rate was 1.2 percent in March 2009.
The data released by the commerce ministry …. Original source  : India’s annual inflation rises 9.9 percent in March.

Jewellery auction market shows signs of recovery

NEW DELHI – The jewellery auction market that slumped under the impact of financial meltdown is showing signs of recouping with increasingly discerning and confident buyers bidding for jewellery.

The spring online auction of jewellery Wednesday at the Mumbai-based online art auction house, Saffronart, registered an increase of 35 percent over last year’s sale. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Jewellery auction market shows signs of recovery.

Presidential Kennedy Space Center visits at a glance

Presidential visits to Kennedy Space Center
Barack Obama is making the first presidential stop at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Fla., in more than a decade. A look at presidential visits:
April 15, 2010: Barack Obama attends space conference.
Oct. 29, 1998: Bill Clinton visited for Sen. John Glenn’s space shuttle launch.
Oct. 1, 1978: … Read more »»».

FACT CHECK: GOP attack on Wall Street oversight bill has been heard before _ from Democrats

FACT CHECK: An echo is heard in Wall Street debate

WASHINGTON – Republicans say White House-backed legislation to oversee the financial industry would lead to more government bailouts. Democrats say that won’t happen. So who’s right?
No one can be sure. But in this case, some key Republican arguments are supported by many on the left, right … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : FACT CHECK: GOP attack on Wall Street oversight bill has been heard before _ from Democrats.

SUPREME COURT NOTEBOOK: Broadcasters denied quick release of audio for high-profile case

No audio for broadcasters in Supreme Court case

WASHINGTON – For the first time in four years, the Supreme Court has gone an entire term without granting the quick release of audio recordings of high-profile arguments.
The court said Wednesday it has rejected a request from four broadcasters for the same-day audio in an important First Amendment …. Read the original article  : SUPREME COURT NOTEBOOK: Broadcasters denied quick release of audio for high-profile case.

Senate ready to pass $18 billion jobless benefits bill for those unemployed at least 6 months

Senate to take up $18B jobless benefits bill

WASHINGTON – A measure restoring jobless benefits to people struggling to find work is back on track in the Senate.
The $18 billion measure could pass Thursday and prevent even more people whose 26 weeks of state-paid benefits have run out from losing an average of $335 a week …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Senate ready to pass $18 billion jobless benefits bill for those unemployed at least 6 months.

AP-GfK Poll: Surprising jump in opposition to Obama’s health care law after he signs it

AP-GfK Poll: Jump in opposition to health care law
WASHINGTON – Opposition to President Barack Obama’s health care law jumped after he signed it – a clear indication his victory could become a liability for Democrats in this fall’s elections.
A new Associated Press-GfK poll finds Americans oppose the health care remake 50 percent to … Original source on Gaea Times at : AP-GfK Poll: Surprising jump in opposition to Obama’s health care law after he signs it.

2009 saw end of Third World, says Zoellick

WASHINGTON – The world has entered a new multi-polar economic order and 2009 saw the end of what was known as the Third World, World Bank president Robert B. Zoellick has said.

“It’s time we recognise the new economic parallel. The outdated categorisation of First and Third Worlds, donor and supplicant, leader and led, no longer … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 2009 saw end of Third World, says Zoellick.

Thai Red Shirt protest leader climbs down hotel facade with rope to flee police raid

Thai protester climbs out hotel to evade capture

BANGKOK – Thailand’s political crisis took a surreal twist Friday when an anti-government protest leader climbed down a hotel facade with a rope to evade arrest and drove off with two police officers taken hostage by his supporters.
Arisman Pongruangrong’s escapade was the latest embarrassment for the government, which …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Thai Red Shirt protest leader climbs down hotel facade with rope to flee police raid.

India, China to corner 30 percent each of diamond business

SURAT – India and China are expected to share almost 30 percent of the world’s diamond and gems business each by 2020, says Roger Lorie, chief executive of the International Gemological Institute (IGI) Worldwide.

The world’s diamond business would shift from the West to the East in the next 10 years or even earlier. “I … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : India, China to corner 30 percent each of diamond business.

Finance ministers seek to stem debt crisis as Greece calls for more work on potential bailout

Eurozone ministers seek ways to stem debt crisis

MADRID – Eurozone finance ministers gathered Friday to seek ways to halt a government debt crisis as Greece asks the European Union and the International Monetary Fund to step up work on a potential multibillion bailout.
The Greek government said Thursday it would hold “systematic negotiations” on the standby … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Finance ministers seek to stem debt crisis as Greece calls for more work on potential bailout.

Include India, Brazil in UN security council: BRIC nations

BRASILIA – Calling for reform of the UN and the global financial architecture, BRIC countries have underlined the centrality of G20 as the premier economic forum and pitched for including India and Brazil in an expanded UN Security Council.

Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Brazilian President Lula da Silva, Chinese President Hu Jintao and Russian … Read more : Include India, Brazil in UN security council: BRIC nations.

Some vulnerable patients may be shut out of lower-cost health premiums available this year

Low-cost coverage in Obama health plan not for all
WASHINGTON – It’s an eagerly awaited early benefit of President Barack Obama’s health care overhaul: affordable coverage for Americans with medical problems who can’t get a private insurer to even take a look.
Starting in July, a special high-risk pool will offer … Read more >>>.

Poor swath of conservative, anti-stimulus SC didn’t want the money, but it’s working

In anti-stimulus SC, money is making a difference
AIKEN, S.C. – Most people in South Carolina didn’t vote for Barack Obama and didn’t want any part of his stimulus cash, and folks in a particularly poor, hard-hit swath near the Georgia line were no exception. Until the money showed up.
About $1.6 billion …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Poor swath of conservative, anti-stimulus SC didn’t want the money, but it’s working.

Thai Red Shirt protest leader scales hotel facade with rope to flee police raid

Thai protester scales hotel wall to evade capture

BANGKOK – Thailand’s political crisis took a surreal twist Friday when an anti-government protest leader scaled down a hotel facade with a rope to evade arrest and drove off with two police officers taken hostage by his supporters.
Arisman Pongruangrong’s escapade was the latest embarrassment for the government, which …. Source article  : Thai Red Shirt protest leader scales hotel facade with rope to flee police raid.

Flights to London, Europe cancelled due to volcano ash

NEW DELHI/MUMBAI – Many international airlines, including Indian carriers, have either cancelled or rescheduled their flights to north European destinations following volcanic ash clouding the flight path, a top Air India official said Friday.

“As of now, many of the flights are not going to operate to north European destinations,” said a spokesperson for India’s flagship [..] Read the original article: here.

Farmworkers try to persuade Fla.-based supermarket chain Publix to pay penny more for tomatoes

Pickers want Fla. chain to pay more for tomatoes

TAMPA, Fla. – After persuading McDonald’s, Whole Foods and Subway that they should pay an extra penny per pound for tomatoes, a farmworkers group is taking on supermarket giant Publix.
The Coalition of Immokalee Workers will kick off a three-day march Friday to try to persuade the Florida-based … Read : Farmworkers try to persuade Fla.-based supermarket chain Publix to pay penny more for tomatoes.

Asian stock markets as investors mull strong GDP growth, monetary tightening

Asian stocks fall on inflation, rate hike concerns

SINGAPORE – Asian stock markets fell Friday as investors mulled whether the region’s strong economic growth so far this year could trigger inflation and higher interest rates.
Japan’s benchmark Nikkei 225 stock average led decliners, dropping 171.61 points, or 1.5 percent, to 11,102.18. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index fell [..] Read the original article: here.

Thai Red Shirt protest leader stages dramatic escape from hotel surrounded by police

Thai protester in dramatic escape to avoid police

BANGKOK – Thailand’s political crisis took a surreal twist Friday when an anti-government protest leader scaled down a hotel facade with a rope to evade arrest and drove off with two police officers taken hostage by his supporters.
Arisman Pongruangrong’s escapade was the latest embarrassment for the government, which [..] Read the original article: here.

Sensex starts weak, selling pressure on realty, energy

MUMBAI – It was another weak opening for a benchmark index of Indian equities Friday, which was ruling 66 points lower than its previous close, almost an hour into trade.

The 30-scrip sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), which opened at 17,645.91 points, was ruling at 17,572.45 points, 66.81 points or 0.38 percent …. Source article  : Sensex starts weak, selling pressure on realty, energy.

Rolling Stone putting full issues and its 43-year archive online _ for paying customers only

Rolling Stone’s archive going online – for a price

NEW YORK – For the first time Rolling Stone is inviting its readers on the long, strange trip though the magazine’s 43-year archive, putting complete digital replicas online along with the latest edition. But you’ll have to pay to see it all.
With a new site launching Monday, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Rolling Stone putting full issues and its 43-year archive online _ for paying customers only.

Oil drops below $85 in Asia as stock markets slide, led by Japan, China

Oil drops below $85 as Asian stocks slump
SINGAPORE – Oil prices fell below $85 a barrel Friday as crude traders eyed a sharp drop in Asian stocks.

Benchmark crude for May delivery was down 77 cents to $84.74 a barrel at late afternoon Singapore time in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange. The contract … Read more : Oil drops below $85 in Asia as stock markets slide, led by Japan, China.

New volume of Haruki Murakami’s top-selling novel “1Q84??? goes on sale in Japan

New volume of Murakami novel goes on sale in Japan

TOKYO – Eager fans waited in drizzling rain Friday to buy the third volume of Haruki Murakami’s best-selling, multi-part novel “1Q84″ and learn if its main characters – long-ago schoolmates now searching for each other – would be reunited.
Publisher Shinchosha said 500,000 copies would hit bookstores … Read more : New volume of Haruki Murakami’s top-selling novel “1Q84″ goes on sale in Japan.

Obama signs $18 billion jobless benefits bill despite deficit worries

Obama signs $18 billion jobless benefits bill
WASHINGTON – Just hours after Congress passed an $18 billion bill to restore unemployment benefits for the long-term unemployed, President Barack Obama made it the law of the land.
The measure comes as welcome relief to hundreds of thousands of people who lost out … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Obama signs $18 billion jobless benefits bill despite deficit worries.

Money Market Operations as on April 15, 2010

…. Original article  : Money Market Operations as on April 15, 2010.

Obama signs bill for unemployment benefits through June 2, full Medicaid payments restored

Obama signs bill extending unemployment benefits
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama has signed a bill extending unemployment benefits through June 2 and restoring full Medicaid payments to doctors.
The bill cleared both houses of Congress on Thursday night. The House passed the bill 289-112 just two hours after it emerged from the Senate on a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Obama signs bill for unemployment benefits through June 2, full Medicaid payments restored.

Panel sets quota but restores brief commercial salmon seasons for California

Panel sets fishing seasons for West Coast salmon

PORTLAND, Ore. – For the first time since 2007, commercial and recreational fishermen will be able to cast their lines for ocean salmon from the Canadian border to Mexico.
The Pacific Fishery Management Council approved seasons and quotas for chinook and coho salmon off the coasts of Washington, Oregon …. Source  : Panel sets quota but restores brief commercial salmon seasons for California.

Survey: Bankers in Midwest, Plains see signs of promise in failing ag industry

Survey: Bankers see promise in ag industry

OMAHA, Neb. – A survey of rural bankers in 10 Midwest and Plains states released Thursday showed signs of promise amid prolonged financial weakness in the agriculture industry.
The overall index for the Rural Mainstreet economic report fell to 44.2 in April from 47.4 in March. The April 2009 index …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Survey: Bankers in Midwest, Plains see signs of promise in failing ag industry.

Complete the work, it’s already late: Hooda on expressway

GURGAON – “Complete the work, it is already late.” This is what Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda had to say to the firm which is constructing the 135.65-km-long Kundli-Manesar-Palwal (KMP) expressway.

Hooda, who visited the expressway Saturday, directed DS Construction Limited officials to expedite the work and also ordered senior government officials to inspect the … Original article on : Complete the work, it’s already late: Hooda on expressway.

SpiceJet to introduce Kolkata-Agartala flight

AGARTALA – Low-fare private airline SpiceJet will introduce a Kolkata-Agartala flight next month as part of its plans to gradually increase its presence in the northeast, its Chief Commercial Officer Samyukth Sridharan said Saturday.

SpiceJet, with an over 12 percent market share, has so far been operating flights only to Guwahati in the northeast.
“Tripura’s capital … Original source on Gaea Times at : SpiceJet to introduce Kolkata-Agartala flight.

EU finance ministers work on tougher banking oversight, levy to pay for future bank collapses

EU finance ministers work on banking oversight

MADRID – European Union finance ministers were working Saturday on ways to ensure tougher banking supervision, and considering a bank levy to pay for banks that collapse in the future, hoping to prevent a repeat of the recent financial crisis which cost governments billions of euros.
French Finance Minister Christine … Original source on Gaea Times at : EU finance ministers work on tougher banking oversight, levy to pay for future bank collapses.

Paradip port’s new berth faces clearance delay

BHUBANESWAR – The construction of a new deep draught iron ore berth at Paradip port in Orissa is facing a delay as the state government has not yet granted clearance to the project, a senior port official said Saturday.

The port authorities had signed an agreement with Blue Water Iron Ore Terminal Pvt Ltd in …. Original source  : Paradip port’s new berth faces clearance delay.

Himachal fails to use World Bank funds

SHIMLA – Himachal Pradesh, a storehouse of bio-diversity, has failed to utilise 86 percent of forest funds provided under a World Bank-aided project, the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) has said.

On overall basis, the state failed to utilise 21 percent of the total allocated funds in the past two years.
“Under mountain livelihood …. Source article  : Himachal fails to use World Bank funds.

Democratic woes, tough economic times create political challenge for Calif. incumbent Boxer

California rough terrain for Senate incumbent
WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. – A Democrat and a woman, Helen Sargent is the kind of voter that Sen. Barbara Boxer needs this year in her drive for a fourth term in Washington.
So, what does Sargent think of taxes and the U.S. debt? Too high.
President Barack Obama, Boxer’s …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Hundreds stranded as US, Britain flights cancelled

MUMBAI – Around 900 passengers were stranded at the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport Saturday as flights to several places in Europe were cancelled following volcanic ash clouding the flight path.

All flights from Mumbai to London, cities in the US and Canada have been cancelled and flights to India are also delayed indefinitely, officials said.
“Our … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Hundreds stranded as US, Britain flights cancelled.

Toyota recalls Sienna minivans

WASHINGTON – Toyota has announced a voluntary recall of some 600,000 Sienna minivans in the US and 270,000 in Canada because of safety concerns about potential corrosion in its spare tyre carrier.

The recall applies to certain models of the van from 1998 to 2010 that were driven in cold climates where road salt may have … Read : Toyota recalls Sienna minivans.

Regulators shut down 8 banks in Calif., Fla., Mass., Mich., Wash. for 50 closures this year

8 banks close in Calif., Fla., Mass., Mich., Wash.

WASHINGTON – Regulators on Friday shut down eight banks – three in Florida, two in California, and one each in Massachusetts, Michigan and Washington – putting the number of U.S. bank failures this year at 50.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. took over the three Florida banks: Riverside …. Source  : Regulators shut down 8 banks in Calif., Fla., Mass., Mich., Wash. for 50 closures this year.

Regulators shut down 7 banks in Calif., Fla., Mass., Mich. for total of 49 closures this year

7 banks shut down in Calif., Fla., Mass., Mich.

WASHINGTON – Regulators have shut down seven banks – three in Florida, two in California, and one each in Massachusetts and Michigan – putting the number of U.S. bank failures this year at 49.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. on Friday took over the three Florida banks: Riverside …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Regulators shut down 6 banks in Calif., Fla., Mass., Mich. for total of 48 closures this year

6 banks shut down in Calif., Fla., Mass., Mich.

WASHINGTON – Regulators have shut down six banks – three in Florida, and one each in California, Massachusetts and Michigan – putting the number of U.S. bank failures this year at 48.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. on Friday took over the three Florida banks: Riverside National Bank …. Read the original article  : Regulators shut down 6 banks in Calif., Fla., Mass., Mich. for total of 48 closures this year.

AP Interview: Tester says contentious $50 billion fund in bank bill is an ‘arbitrary figure’

Tester: $50B bank fund an ‘arbitrary figure’
HELENA, Mont. – A proposed $50 billion fund for taking apart banks that are “too big to fail” is an arbitrary figure that should not tank financial overhaul legislation – if Senate Republicans truly want to negotiate, Senate Banking Committee member Jon Tester said Friday.
But that fund …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : AP Interview: Tester says contentious $50 billion fund in bank bill is an ‘arbitrary figure’.

Regulators approve futures trading based on movie box office revenues; studios propose ban

Panel OKs market for movie bets; studios want ban

LOS ANGELES – U.S. regulators on Friday approved the creation of a futures market for trading in forecast box-office receipts, but major Hollywood studios immediately trumpeted a bill that would ban it.
The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission approved the creation of the Trend Exchange, a forum that …. Source  : Regulators approve futures trading based on movie box office revenues; studios propose ban.

Proposed Wash. ballot measure would end state monopoly on liquor sales, distribution

Wash. initiative would end state liquor monopoly

OLYMPIA, Wash. – Voters could see an initiative this year to break up the state government monopoly on liquor sales, although it’s not clear who is behind the campaign or whether it has enough steam to make the fall ballot.
Supporters of the idea filed paperwork this week with state … Read more »»».

Kyrgyzstan turmoil prompts coordinated international response; new Kyrgyz leaders seek justice

New Kyrgyz leaders vow to prosecute ex-president
JALAL-ABAD, Kyrgyzstan – With the tremors of Kyrgyzstan’s violent revolution subsiding, the country’s provisional leader said Friday that her government will push for an international probe of the former president, who has fled the country.
Ousted leader Kurmanbek Bakiyev left Thursday for neighboring Kazakhstan on a flight arranged … Original source on Gaea Times at : Kyrgyzstan turmoil prompts coordinated international response; new Kyrgyz leaders seek justice.

Correction: Comcast executive compensation story

Correction: Comcast executive compensation story

PHILADELPHIA – In a story April 9 about the executive compensation of Comcast Corp.’s chief executive, The Associated Press erroneously tabulated the pay package. The story did not include $2.25 million in above-market benefits on deferred compensation for the CEO, Brian Roberts. As a result, Roberts’ total pay under the AP’s …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Correction: Comcast executive compensation story.

Regulators shut down 5 banks based in Fla., Mass., Michigan; makes 47 bank failures this year

Regulators shut 5 banks in Fla., Mass., Mich.

NEW YORK – Regulators shut down five banks Friday – three in Florida, and one each in Massachusetts and Michigan – putting the number of U.S. bank failures this year at 47.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. said it took over Riverside National Bank of Florida in Fort Pierce, … Read more »»».

Gannett’s CEO discusses the potential impact of the iPad on the company’s newspapers

On the Call: Gannett’s CEO on the iPad
NEW YORK – Many of the newspaper publishers who have lost so much of their advertising revenue to competitors on the Web are hoping Apple’s new iPad computer can help fix their business models.

Gannett Co. CEO Craig Dubow discussed the iPad’s potential on a conference call with analysts …. Original article  : Gannett’s CEO discusses the potential impact of the iPad on the company’s newspapers.

Former Obama car czar Rattner still under kickback cloud as new details emerge about conduct

Ex-Obama car czar remains under a kickback cloud

NEW YORK – Investigators probing a pay-to-play scandal at New York’s government pension fund have been turning up the heat on former Obama car czar Steven Rattner.
The one-time star of Wall Street and Washington has been dealing for more than a year with an investigation of allegations that …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Former Obama car czar Rattner still under kickback cloud as new details emerge about conduct.

Detroit mayor, governor join US, Canadian officials in support of government-owned bridge

US, Canadian officials speak out for new bridge

DETROIT – Dangling the prospect of job creation in a region swamped by high unemployment, Gov. Jennifer Granholm, Detroit Mayor Dave Bing and other leaders from the U.S. and Canada urged state lawmakers on Friday to allow Michigan to enter a partnership to build a new international bridge.
The …. Read the original article  : Detroit mayor, governor join US, Canadian officials in support of government-owned bridge.

India, Bangladesh power venture to come up in Chalna

DHAKA – Chalna, a port town in southwestern Bangladesh, will be the location for a proposed 1,310 megawatt coal-fired power plant to be set up as a joint venture between Bangladesh and India, an official said Sunday.

A joint technical committee comprising officials of the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) and the National Thermal Power … Original source on Gaea Times at : India, Bangladesh power venture to come up in Chalna.

Ahmadinejad reviews army parade, says Iran so mighty today no one would dare attack

Ahmadinejad extolls Iran’s military might
TEHRAN, Iran – President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad on Sunday extolled Iran’s military might during an annual army parade, saying the country is so powerful today that no one would dare attack it.

The parade in Tehran showcased Iran’s surface-to-surface Ghadr, Sajjil and Shahab-3 missiles, which have a range of up to 1,250 miles …. Read the original article  : Ahmadinejad reviews army parade, says Iran so mighty today no one would dare attack.

AIIMS metro station is patient-friendly

NEW DELHI – The upcoming metro station at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) here has been specially designed for patients visiting it and the nearby Safdarjung Hospital.

The patient-friendly station is being constructed by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) on the Central Secretariat-Qutab Minar metro corridor.
“As two important hospitals of the … Original article on : AIIMS metro station is patient-friendly.

Upcoming metro station at AIIMS is patient-friendly

NEW DELHI – The upcoming metro station at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) here has been specially designed for patients visiting the premier hospital.

The patient-friendly station is being constructed by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) on the Central Secretariat-Qutab Minar metro corridor.
“As two important hospitals of the national capital (AIIMS … Read : Upcoming metro station at AIIMS is patient-friendly.

Facebook to launch operations in China

BEIJING – Facebook, the world’s largest social networking website, is aiming to enter the Chinese market and has hired a domestic head-hunting company to recruit business managers for the country, a media report has said.

Facebook wants to hire a general manager based in Beijing to oversee its operations in China, Global Times reported Friday.
The …. Original source  : Facebook to launch operations in China.

Tobacco farmer Alejandro Robaina, symbol of Cuba’s cigar prowess, dies at 91

Cuban cigar legend Robaina dead at 91
HAVANA – Cuban tobacco grower Alejandro Robaina, an international symbol of the island’s cigar-making prowess, died Saturday. He was 91.

Cuban state television announced his death, and the state tobacco concern Habanos SA, which produces the Robaina brand cigar, said on its website that he was the “victim of a …. Read the original article  : Tobacco farmer Alejandro Robaina, symbol of Cuba’s cigar prowess, dies at 91.

Aussie publisher reprinting cookbook after recipe typo calls for ‘freshly ground black people’

Cookbook pulped over ‘ground black people’ typo

SYDNEY – An Australian publisher is reprinting 7,000 cookbooks over a recipe for pasta with “salt and freshly ground black people.”
Penguin Group Australia’s head of publishing, Bob Sessions, acknowledged the proofreader should have caught the “silly mistake.”
He told The Sydney Morning Herald for a story printed Saturday that, “We’re …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Apple prices to go up as supply from China drops

BEIJING – Apple prices may go up in the international markets as China, a major supplier of the fruit, has reported a drop in their supply this week due to a bitter cold gripping the northern parts of the country.

In Shaanxi province, the country’s largest apple growing base, more than 22 counties recorded …. Original source  : Apple prices to go up as supply from China drops.

25 years ago, prize money kept Boston Marathon from becoming also-ran in the running world

25 years of prize money, Boston still runs strong

BOSTON – After decades with the marathon world to itself, the Boston Athletic Association watched races in other cities begin offering prize money and appearance fees and flatter, easier courses that attracted the top talent.
The choice was clear for the world’s oldest and most prestigious marathon: Accept … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 25 years ago, prize money kept Boston Marathon from becoming also-ran in the running world.

Luci Baines Johnson hospitalized at Mayo Clinic, doctors suspect autoimmune disorder

President LBJ’s youngest daughter hospitalized

DALLAS – Luci Baines Johnson, the youngest daughter of former President Lyndon B. Johnson, is being treated at the Mayo Clinic for what doctors suspect is a rare autoimmune disorder that affects the nervous system, her personal physician said Saturday.
Johnson, 62, who was flown by air ambulance to the clinic in … Read more »»».

Calif. Democrats seek to capture election-year momentum; Jerry Brown wants bipartisan debate

California Democrats seek election-year momentum
LOS ANGELES – Democrats facing a tough election year dared Republicans on Saturday to challenge them on issues from Wall Street regulations to health care reform, testing what they hope will be a winning message with most voters in the fall.
Democrats at the state party’s annual convention had … Original article on : Calif. Democrats seek to capture election-year momentum; Jerry Brown wants bipartisan debate.

Calif. Dem. Jerry Brown wants unprecedented primary debate with GOP rivals Whitman, Poizner

Jerry Brown to Calif. GOP rivals: Debate me now

LOS ANGELES – Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jerry Brown on Saturday challenged his potential GOP rivals to an unprecedented bipartisan debate before the state’s June primary, responding to criticism that he has been slow to enter the political fight.
Outgunned by the personal wealth of Republicans Meg Whitman and … Read more >>.

Massey Energy’s CEO total 2009 pay falls 12 percent as coal miner faced weak demand

Massey Energy CEO’s 2009 pay down 12 percent

DENVER – The Associated Press has found that compensation for Massey Energy’s CEO fell 12 percent last year as the West Virginia coal mining company coped with sluggish demand.
Don Blankenship’s pay was $17.3 million in 2009, compared with $19.7 million the year before.
Massey saw coal demand fall as … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Massey Energy’s CEO total 2009 pay falls 12 percent as coal miner faced weak demand.

Delhi regains top position in 3G spectrum auction

NEW DELHI – India Saturday completed 40 rounds of an auction to award radio frequency spectrum for third generation telecom services in the country, with Delhi beating Gujarat and attracting the highest bid price at over Rs.600 crore.

Leaving Gujarat, which had been attracting the highest bid for the last three consecutive days, far behind in …. Source  : Delhi regains top position in 3G spectrum auction.

Hooda pulls up officials for expressway construction delay

CHANDIGARH – Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda Saturday directed officials to expedite the construction of the 135.65-km-long Kundli-Manesar-Palwal (KMP) expressway, which has already missed its deadline by six months.

The KMP expressway passes over National Highway-8 at Panchgaon village, about five km from Manesar in Gurgaon district. It will enable trucks from across the country … Read : Hooda pulls up officials for expressway construction delay.

Mumbai domestic airport’s new terminal opened

MUMBAI – The new domestic terminal 1C at the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport was inaugurated by Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel and Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan Saturday.

The terminal will increase passenger handling capacity and enhance the overall passenger comfort and convenience, Mumbai International Airport Pvt Ltd (MIAL) chairman G.V. Krishna Reddy said.
“Our [..] Read the original article: here.

Liquor industry toasts states modernizing alcohol laws and tasting events

Some states easing laws on liquor tastings

RICHMOND, Va. – With about 5,000 brands of liquor available on store shelves nationwide, suppliers of some top-selling spirits hope modernization of state alcohol laws will get customers to try new products boost revenue for them and states.
Virginia is one of the latest states to change what critics say … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Liquor industry toasts states modernizing alcohol laws and tasting events.

UAE’s private firm employees see bleak career prospects

Abu Dhabi, April 17 (IANS/WAM) Sixty percent of private sector employees in the UAE have quit their jobs forseeing no prospects of career advancement, a new study says.

There has been a continuous increase of Emiratis working in private firms, though retention remains to be a serious issue due to lack of career progression and the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : UAE’s private firm employees see bleak career prospects.

Seeking fourth term, Calif. Sen. Barbara Boxer faces Democratic woes, tough economic times

Calif. Sen. Boxer finds rocky re-election terrain
WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. – Hints of re-election trouble for U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer come from a 65-year-old travel agent from this leafy Los Angeles suburb who’s a fellow Democrat.
To Helen Sargent, taxes and the national debt are too high, President Barack Obama has proved a … Read : Seeking fourth term, Calif. Sen. Barbara Boxer faces Democratic woes, tough economic times.

10 more subway stations to open in Dubai

Dubai April 17 (IANS/WAM) Dubai Saturday announced the opening of seven new subway stations this month and three in the next month, expecting to revamp the public transport system in the country’s urban areas.

Mattar Al Tayer, chairman of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), said seven metro stations will become operational April 30, while three … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 10 more subway stations to open in Dubai.