Corruption will be dealt with but Raja’s done no wrong: PM

NEW DELHI – Assuring that corruption will be dealt with at any level, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday said auction of airwaves to telecom firms was above board and gave a clean chit to Communications Minister A. Raja, pending conclusion of a probe.

“What he (Raja) did was implement a policy that was already in place,” …. Original article  : Corruption will be dealt with but Raja’s done no wrong: PM.

Spicejet is five years old, expects higher growth

NEW DELHI – Low-cost airline SpiceJet has completed five years of operations, and is expecting higher growth in the coming years.

“Despite the challenges in the business environment, we have been able to sustain our growth and the future looks bright for us,” chief executive Sanjay Aggarwal said in a statement.
The airline has over 12 …. Original article  : Spicejet is five years old, expects higher growth.

Financial overhaul bill gives Obama another big win on Hill, but may not help Dems in November

Obama’s big wins on bills may not help Democrats
WASHINGTON – Anxious and angry, Americans are not in a congratulatory mood. That’s bad news for President Barack Obama and his Democratic allies.
After winning a landmark health care overhaul earlier this year, Obama now stands on the brink of seeing Congress approve the most far-reaching …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Mayawati’s yes for special force for statues, memorials

LUCKNOW – Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati is set to go ahead with her decision to form a special force to protect her multi-billion dream projects — memorials and statues, officials said Monday.

“We will have the new outfit in place by next month. We commenced the recruitment exercise a couple of months ago,” disclosed state …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Mayawati’s yes for special force for statues, memorials.

Indian prime minister: “major effort” under way to bridge Indo-Pakistan divide

India PM: “major effort” in Indo-Pakistan talks
NEW DELHI – India’s prime minister said Monday a major diplomatic effort was under way to improve ties between India and Pakistan, and that he was hopeful the talks would succeed.
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s comments came three weeks after he and Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani … Read more >>.

British Airways cabin crew begin strike, but airline says most passengers will fly anyway

British Airways cabin crew begin 5-day strike

LONDON – Thousands of British Airways cabin crew began a five-day strike Monday, though the airline claimed it will still be able to carry 70 percent of passengers who have booked flights.
The walkout in the increasingly bitter feud follows the failure of weekend talks between the Unite union and … Original source on Gaea Times at : British Airways cabin crew begin strike, but airline says most passengers will fly anyway.

Bangladesh preparing to import Indian power

DHAKA – Bangladesh will allocate Taka 17 billion ($245 million) in its annual budget next month for constructing the infrastructure necessary to import 500 MW of electricity from India, an official said.

Finance minister Abul Maal Abdul Muhith has consented to the allocation.
A senior official of the power ministry said that the allocation would … Original article on : Bangladesh preparing to import Indian power.

Astronauts need to conduct a last safety inspection of Atlantis before Wednesday’s return

Astronauts need a last inspection of Atlantis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Atlantis astronauts have some surveying work ahead of them, now that they’re flying free of the International Space Station.
The six shuttle astronauts will pull out their newly repaired inspection boom on Monday to check for any micrometeorite damage that might have occurred during the … Read : Astronauts need to conduct a last safety inspection of Atlantis before Wednesday’s return.

PETA’s stock-buying campaign takes animal welfare protests from street corner to boardroom

PETA buys stock to gain influence in boardrooms

DES MOINES, Iowa – An animal-rights group known for sending out scantily clad demonstrators to protest fur and other provocative stunts has gained influence in boardrooms with a more traditional tactic: buying company stock.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals has been buying shares for seven years and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : PETA’s stock-buying campaign takes animal welfare protests from street corner to boardroom.

Indian economy performed best, inflation will be tackled: PM (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – India performed better than most global economies and will grow at 10 percent in the medium term with moderate inflation even as social inclusion would remain at the core of government agenda, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Monday.

“The agenda for our second term seeks to strengthen a pro-people policies and programmes initiated …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Indian economy performed best, inflation will be tackled: PM (Second Lead).

Clinton says NKorea has created a ‘highly precarious’ security situation on Korean peninsula

Clinton: Koreas security situation ‘precarious’
BEIJING – U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton said Monday that North Korea’s sinking of a South Korean warship has created a “highly precarious” security situation in the region and that the Obama administration is working to prevent an escalation of tension that could lead to conflict.
Speaking to …. Read the original article  : Clinton says NKorea has created a ‘highly precarious’ security situation on Korean peninsula.

Water will be major issue in coming years: PM

NEW DELHI – Distribution of water is likely to become a major issue, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Monday.

“I do agree that water is an emerging and going to become a major issue in the years to come,” Singh told journalists here.
About the accusation of the Tamil Nadu chief minister that the central government …. Source article  : Water will be major issue in coming years: PM.

World’s most expensive stamp auctioned

LONDON – The only known misprint of an 1855 three shilling stamp retained its title of being the world’s most expensive stamp when it was auctioned in Geneva.

The stamp, called the Swedish ‘Treskilling Yellow’, was bought by a group of buyers who wanted their identities and the winning bid be kept confidential, said auctioneer David …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : World’s most expensive stamp auctioned.

Asian stock markets mostly rise, led by China, after Wall Street’s advance

Asian stock markets follow Wall Street advance
SINGAPORE – Asian stock markets were mostly higher Monday, led by China, as investors took heart from a late rally on Wall Street. European shares were mixed.
As trading got started in Europe, Britain’s FTSE 100 fell 0.3 percent, Germany’s DAX index lost 0.4 percent amid …. Source article  : Asian stock markets mostly rise, led by China, after Wall Street’s advance.

India targets 10 percent near-term growth, 5 percent inflation: PM

NEW DELHI – Putting inclusive growth and taming price rise on top of United Progressive Alliance’s (UPA) agenda, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday set a medium-term target of 10 percent annual economic expansion for India with moderate inflation.

“The agenda for our second term seeks to strengthen a pro-people policies and programmes initiated by our government …. Original source  : India targets 10 percent near-term growth, 5 percent inflation: PM.

India has a medium-term growth target of 10 percent: Manmohan Singh

NEW DELHI – Putting inclusive economic growth on top of United Progressive Alliance’s (UPA) agenda, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday said his government has set an “achievable” medium-term target of 10 percent expansion per annum.

“The agenda for our second term seeks to strengthen a pro-people policies and programmes initiated by our government since 2004,” the … Read more »»».

Sensex up 228 points in morning trade

MUMBAI – A benchmark index for Indian equities started the week in the green, rising 228 points during morning trade.

The 30-scrip sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) Monday opened at 16,494.61 points, and about 90 minutes later was ruling at 16,674.27 points, 228.66 points or 1.39 percent up from its previous close … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sensex up 228 points in morning trade.

South Korea announces trade restrictions on North Korea

SEOUL – South Korea warned Monday that it was ready to use military force in case of further “provocations” and announced far-reaching trade restrictions after finding that North Korea sunk one of its warships in March.

“From now on, the Republic of Korea will not tolerate any provocative act by the North and will maintain the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : South Korea announces trade restrictions on North Korea.

After 6 seasons, ‘Lost’ finale leaves viewers with long-sought answers, but mysteries remain

‘Lost’ addresses years of questions in finale

NEW YORK – The premiere of “Lost” ended memorably with Charlie’s plaintive question to his fellow island castaways: “Guys, where ARE we?”
Six seasons and some 120 episodes later, many viewers might be wondering the same thing as the much-awaited “Lost” finale brought the series to a rapturous close Sunday … Read : After 6 seasons, ‘Lost’ finale leaves viewers with long-sought answers, but mysteries remain.

Andaman Islands to get better healthcare, flight connectivity

NEW DELHI – Acting on the recommendations of a parliamentary panel that criticised the government for its “indifference” to the healthcare needs of people of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the union home ministry has asked the health ministry to examine if a super speciality hospital can be set up in the Bay of Bengal [..] Read the original article: here.

Pakistan’s public debt jumped $12 bn in 2009-10

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s public debt ballooned by a staggering Rs.1 trillion ($12 billion) in fiscal 2009-10 that ends June 30 due to the rupee depreciating against the dollar as well as loans obtained from the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank and other foreign donors, a media report Tuesday said.

“The public debt in the first …. Original source  : Pakistan’s public debt jumped $12 bn in 2009-10.

Calif. lawmakers who led last year’s budget negotiations receive JFK Profile in Courage award

4 Calif. lawmakers receive JFK Courage award

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Four California lawmakers who stood up to their parties during last year’s state budget crisis have been awarded the annual John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award.
The award was presented Monday to two Democrats, Senate President Pro Tem Darrell Steinberg and former Assembly Speaker Karen Bass, …. Original source  : Calif. lawmakers who led last year’s budget negotiations receive JFK Profile in Courage award.

Retired Colombian police officer accuses Uribe’s brother of leading 1990s death squad

Ex-cop claims Uribe’s brother led death squad

BOGOTA, Colombia – A retired police major said Monday that Colombian President Alvaro Uribe’s younger brother commanded a right-wing death squad in the early 1990s from the family’s cattle ranch. He estimated the militia killed at least 50 people.
The former policeman said Santiago Uribe also claimed his older brother, …. Source article  : Retired Colombian police officer accuses Uribe’s brother of leading 1990s death squad.

Obama administration asks judge to dismiss Virginia lawsuit challenging health reform law

Feds ask Va. health reform lawsuit be dismissed

RICHMOND, Va. – President Barack Obama’s administration on Monday asked a federal judge in Virginia to dismiss the state’s lawsuit alleging Congress overstepped its constitutional bounds with the new health care reform law.
Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius argued in a motion filed hours before a midnight …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Obama administration asks judge to dismiss Virginia lawsuit challenging health reform law.

NYC seeks developer to build new home for National Jazz Museum in Harlem

NYC seeks developer for jazz museum in Harlem

NEW YORK – New York City is seeking a developer to build a new home for the National Jazz Museum in Harlem at a city-owned lot across the street from the Apollo Theater.
The 10,000-square-foot site also will house the ImageNation Sol Cinema, an art house movie theater.
The city’s … Read more »»».

Lobbyists look for exceptions in bill as House and Senate blend banking bills

Bills passed, lobbyists still look for loopholes
WASHINGTON – Auto dealers and insurance companies sought help from the Senate on Monday to ease the reach of financial regulations, part of a last lobbying thrust as the House and Senate assemble legislation for President Barack Obama’s signature.
Car dealerships were looking for the Senate to instruct … Read more >>.

Construction crews dig into the White House North Lawn as major utility upgrade under way

White House North Lawn becomes a construction zone

WASHINGTON – People walking by the front lawn of the White House can expect to see some mixture of construction crews, rigs and chain-link fencing for the next two years.
The executive mansion has launched the first major upgrade to its utility systems in more than 40 years.
The project … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Construction crews dig into the White House North Lawn as major utility upgrade under way.

Justice Dept warns health insurance industry on mergers that stifle competition

Govt warns health insurance industry on mergers
WASHINGTON – In a blunt warning to the health insurance industry, the Obama administration said Monday it won’t hesitate to block mergers that threaten to stifle competition.
Justice Department antitrust chief Christine Varney told a lawyers’ conference that vigorous enforcement of anti-monopoly laws is vital to the success …. Source article  : Justice Dept warns health insurance industry on mergers that stifle competition.

US Cellular promotes human resources chief to executive vice president

US Cellular promotes human resources chief

CHICAGO – Wireless provider United States Cellular Corp. said Monday it has promoted Jeffrey J. Childs to executive vice president and chief human resources officer.
Childs previously served as senior vice president and chief human resources officer. He joined the company in 2004.
… Original article on : US Cellular promotes human resources chief to executive vice president.

Congress to vote on $11B tax increase on oil companies to help pay to clean up spills

Oil tax increase would help pay to clean up spills

WASHINGTON – Congress is getting ready to quadruple – to 32 cents a barrel – a tax on oil used to help finance cleanups. The increase would raise nearly $11 billion over the next decade.
The tax is levied on oil produced in the U.S. or imported …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Congress to vote on $11B tax increase on oil companies to help pay to clean up spills.

CAPITAL CULTURE: Who made the list? Jewish community wonders who’ll make White House reception

CAPITAL CULTURE: WH party will fete Jewish culture

NEW YORK – In politics, as elsewhere, it’s a sport that’s almost as popular as people-watching: Guest-list watching.
And this week, it’s the Jewish community in Washington and beyond that’s buzzing over who’ll be on the list when Barack and Michelle Obama host the first-ever White House reception marking …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : CAPITAL CULTURE: Who made the list? Jewish community wonders who’ll make White House reception.

Pakistan’s GDP to grow 4.5 percent in 2010-11: Report

KARACHI – Pakistan’s economy is set to grow at 4.5 percent in fiscal 2010-11 beginning July 1 against the 4.1 percent during the current fiscal, a media report said Tuesday.

Agriculture growth in the next fiscal is targeted at 3.8 percent, manufacturing growth at 5.6 percent and service sector growth at 4.7 percent, The News reported … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pakistan’s GDP to grow 4.5 percent in 2010-11: Report.

A look at previous stock market corrections, comebacks

A look at stock market corrections, comebacks

The stock market has now undergone its 18th “correction” – a decline of 10 percent to 19.9 percent – since 1946.
Looking at earlier corrections may provide a gauge of how long this one could last. Previous corrections have posted declines averaging 14 percent and typically lasted about four months. …. Original source  : A look at previous stock market corrections, comebacks.

Tony Blair joins Indian-born billionaire’s US firm

LONDON – Former British prime minister Tony Blair, who has landed a job as adviser to Indian-born billionaire Vinod Khosla’s US-based venture capital firm, says he shares a “clear vision” with the tycoon, “one of the earliest leaders in cleantech investment”.

Blair is to lend his expertise and “global relationships” to the California-based Khosla Ventures, which … Read : Tony Blair joins Indian-born billionaire’s US firm.

EXIM India to open office in Ethiopia next month

ETHIOPIA – In a bid to support Indian companies’ growing investments in East Africa, the Export and Import (EXIM) Bank of India will open an office in Ethiopia next month, officials said.

Ethiopia’s Minister of Finance and Development Sufian Ahmed and EXIM bank officials are expected to sign the agreement Tuesday, which will further boost ties … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : EXIM India to open office in Ethiopia next month.

Sensex down 1.48 percent in early trade

MUMBAI – A benchmark index for Indian equities Tuesday opened in the red and was ruling 1.48 percent lower than its previous close, about 15 minutes into trade.

The 30-scrip sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), which opened at 16,444.57 points, was ruling at 16,226 points, 243.55 points or 1.48 percent down from …. Original source  : Sensex down 1.48 percent in early trade.

NFL owners to pick site of 2014 Super Bowl; using new OT rule in regular season also on agenda

NFL meeting’s agenda: 2014 Super Bowl, new OT rule

IRVING, Texas – Ready for an outdoor Super Bowl in cold, possibly snowy weather? Thinking that new overtime rule adopted for playoff games should be used in the regular season, too?
NFL owners will discuss those things and more on Tuesday during meetings in the Dallas area.
The owners … Read more »».

Treasury rates mixed at weekly auction with three-month bills up and six-month bills falling

Treasury rates mixed at weekly auction
WASHINGTON – Interest rates on short-term Treasury bills were mixed in Monday’s auction, with three-month bills rising slightly while while six-month bills fell to the lowest level since early March.

The Treasury Department auctioned $27 billion in three-month bills at a discount rate of 0.165 percent, up from 0.160 percent last … Read more : Treasury rates mixed at weekly auction with three-month bills up and six-month bills falling.

Democratic lawmakers counter Schwarzenegger budget cuts by seeking $5 billion in tax increases

Calif. Democrats propose nearly $5B in new taxes

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Democrats in the state Senate on Monday countered Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s proposed budget cuts with a plan to raise taxes by nearly $5 billion, largely by extending temporary taxes and delaying corporate tax breaks for two years.
During a Senate subcommittee hearing, Democrats said they want …. Source  : Democratic lawmakers counter Schwarzenegger budget cuts by seeking $5 billion in tax increases.

Brown Out: Cavaliers fire coach Mike Brown; team begins search with eye on keeping LeBron

Cavaliers fire Mike Brown after 5 seasons
CLEVELAND – Of the many reasons the Cleveland Cavaliers had for firing coach Mike Brown after five seasons without an NBA title, one mattered most.

They can’t lose LeBron James.
Less than two weeks after their stunning, second-round loss to Boston in the playoffs, the Cavaliers fired Brown on Monday, an … Read more >>.

Costa Rica congress draws ire by voting itself 60 percent pay raise after only month in office

Costa Rica congress votes itself 60% pay raise

SAN JOSE, Costa Rica – Costa Rica’s unicameral congress is drawing criticism by voting itself a 60 percent pay raise less than a month after legislators took office.
Congress members’ salaries will rise to about $8,400 a month if the bill is enacted.
President Laura Chinchilla said Tuesday she will …. Source article  : Costa Rica congress draws ire by voting itself 60 percent pay raise after only month in office.

Land deals up by 550 percent in UAE

Abu Dhabi, May 26 (IANS/WAM) Land and real estate transactions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) showed a whopping increase of 550 percent in April 2010 from the corresponding period last year.

Transactions in Abu Dhabi in April 2010 were worth a total of 12.3 billion dirhams ($3.3 billion). Property transactions amounted to 11.9 billion dirhams, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

South Indian Bank announces 1:10 stock split

TRISSUR – Kerala-based South Indian Bank has decided to split its stocks 1:10 to make it affordable to more people and broaden its retail shareholders base, a top official of the bank said Wednesday.

The bank’s board of directors has decided to split one share of Rs.10 face value into 10 shares of Re.1 each, said …. Original article  : South Indian Bank announces 1:10 stock split.

Sensex holds on to gains amid positive global cues

MUMBAI – A benchmark index for Indian equities Wednesday managed to hold on to its morning gains as sentiments improved across Asian markets and European bourses opened in the green.

The 30-scrip sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), which opened at 16,069.78 points, was ruling at 16,264.62 points, 242.14 points or 1.51 percent …. Original article  : Sensex holds on to gains amid positive global cues.

Rubber growers get Rs.95 lakh assistance for 2010-11

NEW DELHI – The government Wednesday said 18,915 rubber growers will receive financial assistance of Rs.95 lakh this financial year.

The growers will receive the amount on the basis of price spectrum band 2009, calculated on the basis of seven years’ moving average of international price for the commodity.
The amount has been provided under the …. Original source  : Rubber growers get Rs.95 lakh assistance for 2010-11.

IIT Delhi Graduate Introduces ‘Phokatcopy’

NEW DELHI, India (GaeaTimes.com)- Harsh Narang, an IIT Delhi graduate has launched the ‘PhokatCopy’, an idea which he had emulated from his days at the Delhi campus. The young boy has started this initiative with the aim to provide free photocopies to every student in the area, these photocopies being subsidized by the advertisements …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : IIT Delhi Graduate Introduces ‘Phokatcopy’.

BHEL fourth quarter net rises 41 percent

MUMBAI – State-run Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd. (BHEL) Wednesday reported a 41.7 percent rise in net profit at Rs.1,909.58 crore in the fourth quarter of 2009-10 against Rs.1,347.47 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous fiscal.

Total income during the quarter grew to Rs.14,152.63 crore, against Rs.11,047.24 crore in January-March 2009.
Net profit for the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : BHEL fourth quarter net rises 41 percent.

NY and NJ hope fans put their mittened hands into deep pockets for 2014 Super Bowl

NY and NJ bet big on Meadowlands Super Bowl

The big bet for Super Bowl 2014? The weather.
Tourism leaders in New York and New Jersey are hoping thousands of football fans flock to the region in the dead of winter wearing overcoats with deep pockets.
The Super Bowl could bring in as much as $550 million to … Original source on Gaea Times at : NY and NJ hope fans put their mittened hands into deep pockets for 2014 Super Bowl.

Oil rises above $69 in Asia as stock rebound, US gasoline supplies drop

Oil rises above $69 on stocks, US gasoline drop

SINGAPORE – Oil prices rose above $69 a barrel Wednesday in Asia as a drop in U.S. gasoline supplies and rebounding Asian stock markets bolstered confidence that demand for fuel is rising.
Benchmark crude for July delivery was up 65 cents to $69.40 a barrel at midday Singapore … Read more >>>.

Malaysian indigenous tribe wins $1.9 million in landmark settlement on land rights

Malaysian indigenous tribe wins land rights case

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Members of an indigenous tribe in Malaysia have won 6.5 million ringgit ($1.9 million) in a landmark settlement with highway authorities for forcibly taking away their ancestral land for development, a rights activist said Wednesday.
The settlement ended a 15-year legal battle for the Temuan tribe …. Source  : Malaysian indigenous tribe wins $1.9 million in landmark settlement on land rights.

Passengers livid over Air India strike, management offers talks (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – Representatives of striking Air India staff and top officials of the financially-drained carrier are to hold talks here Wednesday in a bid to end the standoff that has left thousands of passengers across the country stranded with as many as 80 flights cancelled since morning.

“We were invited by the management for talks. … Read more »»».

CBS comes out on top for the 7th TV season in 8 years; ‘American Idol’ still a winner

CBS comes out on top for the 7th season in 8 years

NEW YORK – Television’s champions for the season that concludes Wednesday will be familiar: the CBS network and Fox’s “American Idol” juggernaut.
CBS’ status as the nation’s most-watched prime-time network for the seventh time in the past eight years isn’t in doubt. The network averaged … Read more >>>.

Nicklaus tournament gives Calcavecchia an exemption final PGA start

Calcavecchia to end PGA Tour career at Memorial

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Mark Calcavecchia has teed it up 736 times on the PGA Tour, winning 13 tournaments and earning just under $24 million in a career that has not had very many dull moments.
Calcavecchia turns 50 on June 12, and he was thrilled – as thrilled as …. Read the original article  : here.

Consumer confidence rises to 63.3, marking third straight month of improvement

Summary Box: Consumer confidence up in May

RISING CONFIDENCE: The Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index rose to 63.3, sailing past economists’ forecasts for a 59.0 reading. It marks the third straight month of improvement.
BEHIND THE FIGURES: The index is still a long way from the 90 that’s considered healthy.
WHY IT’S IMPORTANT: Consumer spending, including major items …. Read the original article  : Consumer confidence rises to 63.3, marking third straight month of improvement.

Forbes buying online news startup True/Slant, marrying old and new media

Forbes buying online news startup True/Slant

NEW YORK – Forbes Media is buying the online news startup True/Slant, marrying two companies with vastly different approaches to journalism and publishing.
Lewis Dvorkin, who founded True/Slant and was once an editor at Forbes magazine, announced the deal in a blog post Tuesday. He didn’t say how much Forbes is … Read more >>.

Ill. House votes to borrow pension money, give governor sweeping budget powers

Ill. House OKs borrowing, emergency budget plan

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The Illinois House approved a new state budget Tuesday that would borrow billions of dollars, give the governor broad new control over spending and leave a mountain of unpaid bills at the end of the year.
Republicans, and one or two Democrats, condemned the proposed budget as … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ill. House votes to borrow pension money, give governor sweeping budget powers.

Tips on how to make the temp-to-perm transition; Wedding spending jumps, survey finds

Tips on how to make the temp-to-perm transition

TEMP POSITION TRANSITION: Contract work and temporary employment are on the rise as the economy improves, especially for companies that need to meet increased demand but are hesitant to commit to permanent employees and higher benefit costs.
Working a temp job can be a great opportunity to keep skills …. Original source  : Tips on how to make the temp-to-perm transition; Wedding spending jumps, survey finds.

Passengers suffer as Air India cancels 76 flights

NEW DELHI – Over 76 Air India domestic and international flights were cancelled Wednesday following the strike by 15,000 crew members against a gag order and delay in the payment of salaries, leaving thousands of passengers stranded across the country.

“I had a flight to Hong Kong at 11 p.m. on Tuesday and reached the … Original article on : Passengers suffer as Air India cancels 76 flights.

Mahindra and Mahindra acquires electric car maker REVA

BANGALORE/MUMBAI – Automobile major Mahindra and Mahindra (M&M) Wednesday announced it has taken 55.2 percent stake in electric car-maker REVA through a combination of equity purchase and fresh capital infusion of Rs.45 crore ($10 million).

Post acquisition, the Bangalore-based REVA will be renamed Mahindra REVA, spokespersons of both the companies told reporters here.
M&M’s automotive …. Original source  : Mahindra and Mahindra acquires electric car maker REVA.

Google’s Pac-Man logo cost $120 mn to economy

LONDON – Google’s Pac-Man logo led to almost five million wasted hours and cost the economy about $120 million, an analyst estimated.

Google apparently had about 505 million users Friday when the Pac-Man doodle went live. The game took up 4,819,352 hours of employee time and cost the economy a whopping $120,483,800, said Tony Wright, founder … Read more >>.

Oil rises above $72 in Asia as investors mull how much Europe slowdown will hurt demand

Oil rises above $72 as traders mull Europe impact

SINGAPORE – Oil prices rose to above $72 a barrel Thursday in Asia as investors mulled the impact slower European economic growth could have on global crude demand.
Benchmark crude for July delivery was up 85 cents to $72.36 a barrel at late afternoon Singapore time in electronic …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Oil rises above $72 in Asia as investors mull how much Europe slowdown will hurt demand.

Retired Supreme Court Justice Souter can’t stay away from work, takes appeals-court cases

Justice Souter may be retired, but he still works

BOSTON – Justice David Souter ever so politely interrupts an attorney making a complicated legal argument.
“May I ask you a question?” Souter asks. “I will tell you, you do not have to answer it as far as I’m concerned.”
Then Souter cuts to the chase, stinging the lawyer … Read : Retired Supreme Court Justice Souter can’t stay away from work, takes appeals-court cases.

World stocks rise on hopes Asian, US economic growth can withstand Europe debt crisis

World stocks rise on Asian, US growth hopes

SINGAPORE – World stock markets rose Thursday on optimism that Asian and U.S. economic growth will likely withstand financial turmoil in Europe.
Oil prices, meanwhile, headed above $72 a barrel and the shaky euro recouped some losses against the dollar.
Asian countries including China, Japan, Singapore, Taiwan and Malaysia have … Read more : World stocks rise on hopes Asian, US economic growth can withstand Europe debt crisis.

G8/G20 summits to be most expensive three days for Canada

TORONTO – The G8 and G20 summits being held here next month will cost Canada a record $1.1 billion – the most expensive 72 hours in the country’s history.

With these summits become a magnet for anti-globalization protesters, Canada is spending as much as $933 million to provide security for the two summits which together will …. Original article  : G8/G20 summits to be most expensive three days for Canada.

Treasury says sale of 1.5 billion shares of Citigroup stock brings government $6.2 billion

Treasury gets $6.2 billion from Citigroup sales

WASHINGTON – The Treasury Department said Wednesday it raised $6.2 billion from the sale of 1.5 billion shares of Citigroup stock it received as part of the government’s rescue of the bank.
The sales took place over the past month and represented 19.5 percent of the government’s holdings of Citigroup … Read more : Treasury says sale of 1.5 billion shares of Citigroup stock brings government $6.2 billion.

Deadline for jobless benefits nears as Dems struggle for votes on tax and spending package

Dems scale back bill to woo votes for jobless aid

WASHINGTON – Democrats are struggling to extend jobless benefits before they go on vacation next week.
Some lawmakers are concerned they’ll be hammered over deficit spending even though the money is for the unemployed.
House leaders hope to vote Thursday on a bill that would extend the benefits …. Read the original article  : Deadline for jobless benefits nears as Dems struggle for votes on tax and spending package.

Factory orders and new-home sales rise in April, giving economic recovery a boost

Factory orders and new-home sales rise in April

WASHINGTON – The economic recovery got a lift in April as orders for large manufactured goods surged while sales of new homes benefited from homebuyer tax credits.
Manufacturing is helping drive the rebound. But some economists worry about the threat posed to U.S. exports from the widening debt crisis … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Factory orders and new-home sales rise in April, giving economic recovery a boost.

Summary Box: Most commodities retreat on global economic issues; gold is key exception

Summary Box: Global economy weighs on commodities

STALWART GOLD: Gold was one of the few commodities to post a gain Tuesday. It closed up just slightly, limited by selling that routinely occurs in advance of options expirations.
GLOBAL ECONOMIC BLUES: Prices retreated across most commodities as anxious traders monitored ongoing developments with Europe’s debt problems and potential … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Summary Box: Most commodities retreat on global economic issues; gold is key exception.

Sensex extends gains on positive Asian cues

MUMBAI – A benchmark index for Indian equities extended its gains Thursday on positive cues from other major Asian bourses.

The 30-scrip sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), which opened at 16,410.88 points, was ruling at 16,546.28 points, 158.44 points or 0.97 percent up from its previous close at 16,387.84 points.
At … Read more >>>.

Doctors on edge as Congress again goes to the brink to hold off Medicare fee cuts

Uncertainty over Medicare pay sets doctors on edge
WASHINGTON – For the third time this year, Congress is scrambling to stave off a hefty pay cut to doctors treating Medicare patients – even as the Obama administration mails out a glossy brochure to reassure seniors the health care program is on solid ground.
The 21.3 … Read more : Doctors on edge as Congress again goes to the brink to hold off Medicare fee cuts.

Enough market liquidity despite 3G spectrum payments: SBI chief

MUMBAI – O P Bhatt, the Chairman of the State Bank of India, has said there is sufficient liquidity in the market despite an unexpected cash outflow due to 3G mobile spectrum payments.

Talking to reporters here on the sidelines of an RBI … Original article on : Enough market liquidity despite 3G spectrum payments: SBI chief.

Oil India declares 340 percent dividend

NEW DELHI – The state-owned Oil India Limited (O.I.L.) declared a dividend of 340 percent in its fourth quarter results on Wednesday.

N. M. Borah, Chairman and Managing Director of O. I. L. announced that the declared dividend is one of the highest declared by the company so far.

“In recognition to the company’s excellent … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Oil India declares 340 percent dividend.

Apple surpasses Microsoft as most valuable technology company

NEW YORK – Apple, the maker of iPods, iPhones and iPads, overtook Microsoft, the computer software giant, on Wednesday to become the world’s most valuable technology company.

According to a New York Times report,in intraday trading in the afternoon session, Apple shares rose 1.8 percent, which …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Apple surpasses Microsoft as most valuable technology company.

Day after strike, Air India seeks to restore normalcy

NEW DELHI/MUMBAI – National carrier Air India was Thursday struggling to restore normal operations after a two-day wildcat strike by 15,000 employees and said it would take another two days for flight schedules to get regular.

An airline spokesperson said 78 schedules – domestic and international – have been slotted Thursday and more [..] Read the original article: here.

Two Indians among Malaysia’s 40 Richest

WASHINGTON – Two persons of Indian origin figured among Forbes list of Malaysia’s 40 richest as the rebounding Malaysian economy expanded 10 percent in the first quarter of 2010, its highest growth rate in a decade.

Malaysia’s 40 wealthiest are worth a total of $51 billion, up from $36 billion a year ago and even higher … Original source on Gaea Times at : Two Indians among Malaysia’s 40 Richest.

Costa Rica’s congress shelves planned vote on 60pc pay raise after president threatens veto

Costa Rica congress shelves vote on 60% pay hike

SAN JOSE, Costa Rica – Costa Rica’s congress has shelved a final vote on a 60 percent pay raise for its members after President Laura Chinchilla promised to veto the measure.
Salaries for members of the unicameral congress would have risen to about $8,400 a month under a …. Source  : Costa Rica’s congress shelves planned vote on 60pc pay raise after president threatens veto.

Oil rebounds above $71 a barrel as stocks rebound and US gasoline supplies drop

Oil prices jump 4 percent after 3-week slump

NEW YORK – Oil prices rebounded sharply Wednesday after weeks of being knocked down by economic uncertainty.
After dropping more than 20 percent in three weeks, oil rallied 4 percent, the best one-day percentage gain since September 30. Consumers, meanwhile, continue to benefit from declining prices at the pump.
Investors … Read more >>.

Being chosen to host 2014 Super Bowl could lead to naming rights for new stadium

Super Bowl may get name for Giants-Jets stadium

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – Landing the Super Bowl in 2014 should help the Giants and Jets finally put a name on their new $1.6 billion stadium.
Speaking at a news conference Wednesday, the owners of the two NFL teams said the selection of the stadium for the NFL championship … Original article on : Being chosen to host 2014 Super Bowl could lead to naming rights for new stadium.

Facebook overhauls privacy settings

SAN FRANCISCO – Social networking site Facebook introduced a new set of privacy controls Wednesday in an attempt to quell criticism that it was lax about protecting users’ personal information.

The new controls are featured in a streamlined privacy panel that allows users much easier management of who can access their information.
“We believe in privacy. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Facebook overhauls privacy settings.

Slaughterhouse lawyer testifies in trial of manager accused of child labor violations in Iowa

Slaughterhouse lawyer testifies about child labor

WATERLOO, Iowa – A Des Moines attorney who once represented a kosher slaughterhouse testified Wednesday that state labor inspectors didn’t give the company a list of suspected underage workers before a 2008 immigration raid in which 389 illegal immigrants, including children, were detained.
Attorney Mary Funk testified for former plant manager …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Slaughterhouse lawyer testifies in trial of manager accused of child labor violations in Iowa.

Reliance Infra transfers 433 MW capacity to Reliance Power

MUMBAI – The Anil Dhirubhai Ambani group controlled Reliance Infrastructure has transferred 433 MW of power generation capacity valued at Rs.1,095 crore to another firm in the group, Reliance Power.

The transferred assets comprise 220 MW at Samalkot in Andhra Pradesh, 165 MW in Kerala and 48 MW in Goa.
“With this acquisition and commissioning of … Read more >>>.

Vaiko fumes over dam, Kerala calls him ignorant

PALAKKAD – Tamil Nadu MDMK leader Vaiko Friday warned Kerala not to pull down the Mullaperiyar dam, but the state’s Left Democratic Front accused him of whipping up needless passions.

The MDMK blocked all vehicular traffic at 12 points on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border and said the Kerala government should not construct a new dam in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Vaiko fumes over dam, Kerala calls him ignorant.

Food inflation eases to 16.23 percent

NEW DELHI – India’s annual food inflation dipped to 16.23 percent for the week ended May 22 from 16.49 percent in the previous week, official data released Thursday showed.

Data on the wholesale price index (WPI) released by the commerce and industry ministry showed both food and non-food index dropped 0.1 percent each during the week … Read : Food inflation eases to 16.23 percent.

Pakistan’s 2010-11 budget to levy fresh taxes of $1.6 bn: Report

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s budget for fiscal 2010 beginning July 1 will levy fresh taxes of Rs.138 billion to mop up Rs.1,650 billion through various levies, a media report Friday said.

The proposals also include relief of Rs.5 billion on salaries and electricity consumption, Dawn said.
The proposals, prepared by a revenue advisory committee in consultation with … Read more >>.

Air India says all operations restored to normal

MUMBAI – All operations of Air India have been restored to normal two days after a crippling strike by some 15,000 employee was called off, the national carrier announced Friday.

“Our operations have been restored 100 percent, with all the employees reporting back to work,” a spokesperson said adding the carrier’s top management also intends … Read more »».

Marriott International spends $160,000 in first quarter to lobby federal government

Marriott spends $160K in 1Q lobbying
WASHINGTON – Marriott International Inc. spent $160,000 in the first quarter to lobby on travel issues and the economy, as well as other matters, according to a recent disclosure report.

That’s less than the $200,000 the company spent in the fourth quarter on lobbying, and the $190,000 it spent in the … Read more >>>.

Tata Motors profit surges

MUMBAI – Tata Motors, India’s top vehicle maker, beats market estimates with a surge in March quarter earnings, helped by rising sales and profitability at its Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) unit.

The leading maker of trucks and buses is riding a surge in demand at home, but said … Original article on : Tata Motors profit surges.

Cold, what cold? NFL owners pick NJ for outdoor 2014 Super Bowl (You got a problem with that?)

Brr! NFL going outdoors in NJ for 2014 Super Bowl

IRVING, Texas – Check the antifreeze, grab the mittens, make sure the airport’s not snowed in.
We’re going to the Super Bowl.
In New Jersey. In February!
NFL owners voted Tuesday to put the 2014 Super Bowl in the new $1.6 billion Meadowlands Stadium that this season will become …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bill from Okla. House committee would put state agencies’ attorneys under AG’s office

Bill would put Okla. agencies’ lawyers under AG

OKLAHOMA CITY – An Oklahoma House budget panel on Wednesday approved a plan to save some money by transferring authority for state agencies’ lawyers to the attorney general’s office.
If implemented, the bill is expected to save the state an estimated $10 million annually by reducing the number of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Stocks dip as investors remain jittery about Europe’s financial strength; euro falls

Stocks open lower on continued European worries

NEW YORK – Stocks are falling as investors remain jittery about the strength of Europe’s financial sector and economy.
The drop comes even as major European indexes have recovered much of their early morning losses Monday.
Investors remain concerned about Europe’s financial stability. The Bank of Spain had to bail out …. Source  : Stocks dip as investors remain jittery about Europe’s financial strength; euro falls.

Obama administration urges court to throw out Virginia’s lawsuit against new health care law

Administration urges end to Va health care suit

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration is urging dismissal of Virginia’s lawsuit against the new health care law, arguing that Congress acted well within its authority when it passed the legislation.
A court filing late Monday in Richmond, Va., is the first by the administration in response to court challenges …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Obama administration urges court to throw out Virginia’s lawsuit against new health care law.

Fed’s Bullard: Europe debt crisis unlikely to spark another global recession

Bullard: Europe’s woes unlikely to spur recession

WASHINGTON – A Federal Reserve official says the European debt crisis isn’t likely to throw the global economy back into a recession.
James Bullard, president of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, says the turmoil “will probably fall short of becoming a worldwide recessionary shock.”
He says that in the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Fed’s Bullard: Europe debt crisis unlikely to spark another global recession.

Governors of 3 big states urge FCC to allow Comcast to take controlling stake in NBC

3 governors urge FCC to allow Comcast-NBC deal

WASHINGTON – The governors of three large states are urging federal regulators to let Comcast Corp. proceed with its plan to take a controlling stake in NBC Universal.
In a letter to the Federal Communications Commission, Governors David Paterson of New York, Arnold Schwarzenegger of California and Ed Rendell …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Chandigarh to get country’s first PDS smart cards

CHANDIGARH – Chandigarh will soon become the first city in the country to

distribute smart card-based ration cards to below poverty line (BPL) families who benefit from the Public Distribution System (PDS).
HCL Infosystems, a hardware, services and ICT system integration company, has bagged the order to implement the project.
The smart cards will capture all …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Chandigarh to get country’s first PDS smart cards.

No need to worry about Super Bowl weather, but NFL wins with vote anyway

Super Bowl vote shows NFL power
The biggest surprise about the New York area landing a Super Bowl turned out to be that the NFL owners were more concerned about the cold than they should have been.

It took four ballots to declare the Meadowlands a winner, which seemed about three too many considering the Jets and … Read more : No need to worry about Super Bowl weather, but NFL wins with vote anyway.

Treasury names private equity exec Magner to gov’t-owned Ally Financial board of directors

Treasury names board member to Ally Financial

NEW YORK – The Treasury Department has named a new member to the board of the government-owned Ally Financial Inc., the consumer lending company said Wednesday.
Marjorie Magner, a founding member and partner at private equity firm Brysam Global Partners and a former executive at Citigroup Inc., became a board … Original article on : Treasury names private equity exec Magner to gov’t-owned Ally Financial board of directors.

Judge delays some decisions in Texas Rangers’ bankruptcy case after creditors’ objections

Creditors voice concerns over Rangers’ bankruptcy

FORT WORTH, Texas – A bankruptcy judge says he doesn’t want the Texas Rangers “to go hungry” during the team’s bankruptcy case but that a resolution may not come as quickly as the baseball club wants.
The day after the Rangers filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, U.S. Bankruptcy Judge D. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Judge delays some decisions in Texas Rangers’ bankruptcy case after creditors’ objections.

Manpower jumps after Barclays upgrades, says Europe’s debt crisis won’t be big hit to business

Barclays upgrades Manpower after stock sell-off

NEW YORK – Shares of Manpower Inc. rose Wednesday as a Barclays analyst upgraded the company after a stock sell-off, saying fears of a deep hit to Manpower’s staffing business because of Europe’s debt crisis are overblown.
THE SPARK: Analyst Gary Bisbee his rating to “Overweight” from “Equal Weight,” citing a … Original article on : Manpower jumps after Barclays upgrades, says Europe’s debt crisis won’t be big hit to business.

Economist: hiked value of US dollar caused by Europe debt crisis hurting Wyo. energy prices

Economist: Europe debt hurting Wyo. energy prices

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – The state’s economy will benefit if Greece and other European countries don’t default in their debt crisis and if their government spending is reduced, an economist said Tuesday.
Creighton University economist Ernie Goss said Wyoming’s economy should improve if the value of the dollar comes down, which … Read : Economist: hiked value of US dollar caused by Europe debt crisis hurting Wyo. energy prices.

Juggling act: small businesses rebuilding this summer have to work around employees vacations

Companies juggle rebuilding, employee vacations

NEW YORK – Small business owners may feel in a bit of a bind this summer. Just as many companies are recovering from the recession and making do with fewer staffers, it’s high season for employee vacations.
Owners may feel anxiety and resentment when workers say they want time off. They may …. Source  : Juggling act: small businesses rebuilding this summer have to work around employees vacations.

UnitedHealth boosts dividend sharply, may invite criticism amid hotly contested health costs

Insurer UnitedHealth sharply raises dividend

INDIANAPOLIS – UnitedHealth Group is sharply raising the dividend it pays shareholders, a move that may fuel criticism of an industry that has reaped strong profits while health care costs have soared.
UnitedHealth, which is the largest publicly-traded health insurer based on revenue, will spend about $560 million over the next 12 …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : UnitedHealth boosts dividend sharply, may invite criticism amid hotly contested health costs.

Amazon and Penguin reach e-book pricing agreement; new Penguin e-books to be sold on Amazon

Amazon and Penguin make e-book pricing deal

SAN FRANCISCO – Amazon.com Inc. and book publisher Penguin Group reached an agreement regarding the pricing of Penguin’s electronic books, the online retailer and book publisher said Wednesday.
With the new agreement, which both companies declined to detail, Penguin’s newest e-books will begin selling through Amazon. In April, Penguin halted … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Amazon and Penguin reach e-book pricing agreement; new Penguin e-books to be sold on Amazon.

Gov’t says 89 reported deaths linked to Toyota unintended acceleration

Gov’t: 89 deaths tied to Toyota acceleration

WASHINGTON – Unintended acceleration in Toyota vehicles may have been involved in the deaths of 89 people over the past decade, upgrading the number of deaths possibly linked to the massive recalls, the government said Tuesday.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said that from 2000 to mid-May, it had …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Gov’t says 89 reported deaths linked to Toyota unintended acceleration.

NFL owners pick Meadowlands in NJ for 2014 Super Bowl, first time cold site will host the game

Brr! NFL owners pick NJ for 2014 Super Bowl

IRVING, Texas – Check the antifreeze, grab the mittens, make sure the airport’s not snowed in.
We’re going to the Super Bowl.
In New Jersey!
NFL owners voted Tuesday to put the 48th Super Bowl in the new $1.6 billion Meadowlands Stadium that this season will become home to the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : NFL owners pick Meadowlands in NJ for 2014 Super Bowl, first time cold site will host the game.

Appeals court temporarily blocks order that Tennessee Commerce Bancorp take back fired CFO

Appeals court blocks order that Tenn bank keep CFO

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A federal appeals panel has temporarily blocked a court order that would impel Tennessee Commerce Bancorp to reinstate the chief financial officer that it fired.
A three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit issued a preliminary injunction Tuesday that reverses … Original article on : Appeals court temporarily blocks order that Tennessee Commerce Bancorp take back fired CFO.

Crystal Bowersox’ path to ‘Idol’ fame gives her Ohio hometown reason to smile in tough times

‘Idol’ finalist connects with struggling hometown

TOLEDO, Ohio – She’s a bit rough around the edges with blue collar roots.
“American Idol” finalist Crystal Bowersox is a lot like the Ohio towns where she grew up, and her unlikely path to stardom has hit just the right note with people in an area that has fallen on [..] Read the original article: here.

Trans fats are gone, and many foods didn’t get worse as feared, report says

Report: Trans fat limits lead to healthier foods

LOS ANGELES – Holy fish sticks! Scientists finally have some good news about fat in our foods.
Contrary to fears, most food manufacturers and restaurants did not just swap one bad ingredient for another when they trimmed artery-clogging trans fats from products and menus, an analysis finds.
Even the french … Read more »».

Fannie Mae: Delinquency rate for some home loans dipped in March; apartment mortgages worsened

Fannie Mae: Rate of late home loans eased in March

WASHINGTON – Fannie Mae said Thursday the rate for single-family home loans behind in payments by at least 90 days dipped slightly between February and March. But the rate of serious delinquencies for mortgages on apartment buildings worsened.
The government-controlled lender said its conventional single-family serious delinquency … Read more >>>.

Product Recalls: boys’ hooded jackets, basketball-shaped furniture sets, girls’ coats

Recalls: jackets, basketball chairs, girls’ coats

The following recalls have been announced:
-About 200 boys hooded jackets, made in China and distributed by Hind Fashions of New York, because the jackets have a drawstring through the hood that can pose as a strangulation hazard to children. No incidents or injuries have been reported. This recall involves boys … Read more »».

Former NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue says Big East won’t wait for Big Ten to make moves

Tagliabue says Big East is being proactive

DE PERE, Wis. – Former NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue thinks the Big East Conference is being proactive about its future and sees cable giant ESPN as the key player in any long-term decisions the 16-member conference will make.
With conference expansion rumors swirling and Big Ten commissioner Jim Delany perhaps … Read more »».

Belmont, Saratoga, Aqueduct to keep running thanks to $25 million loan from state

NY tracks to stay open after state loan of $25M

ALBANY, N.Y. – The Belmont, Saratoga and Aqueduct racetracks will stay open after New York’s thoroughbred racing operator received a $25 million loan from the state.
The New York Racing Association notified more than 1,400 workers last week that the cash-strapped racing operator might have to close …. Original article  : Belmont, Saratoga, Aqueduct to keep running thanks to $25 million loan from state.

Money Market Operations as on May 26, 2010

…. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Money Market Operations as on May 26, 2010.

Oil hovers near $72 in Asia as investors mull how much Europe slowdown will hurt demand

Oil hovers near $72 as traders mull Europe impact

SINGAPORE – Oil prices rose to near $72 a barrel Thursday in Asia as investors mulled the impact slower European economic growth could have on global crude demand.
Benchmark crude for July delivery was up 38 cents to $71.89 a barrel at midday Singapore time in electronic trading …. Source article  : Oil hovers near $72 in Asia as investors mull how much Europe slowdown will hurt demand.

Russia to make new electric trains with Germany

Moscow, May 28 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Russia will produce the next generation electric trains with the help of a German rail company.

Russia’s railway firm RZD, high-speed train service Aeroexpress, and Germany’s Siemens have signed a deal to manufacture the new electric trains which will be powered by electric motors and magnatic elements.
The document was signed …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Russia to make new electric trains with Germany.

Tour of Missouri canceled amid budget woes; race once a top stop for world’s best riders

Tour of Missouri canceled amid budget woes

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Organizers of the Tour of Missouri have canceled this year’s bicycle race after state tourism officials declined to help fund it.
Tour of Missouri chairman Mike Weiss said Thursday that organizers pulled the plug on the race after Gov. Jay Nixon’s administration refused to support it.
The … Read more : Tour of Missouri canceled amid budget woes; race once a top stop for world’s best riders.

Unexpected benefit of turmoil in Europe and markets: Mortgage rates near record low

Mortgage rates are back near record low
WASHINGTON – Turmoil in the stock market and the European debt crisis are making life easier for American homebuyers and families looking to refinance: Mortgage rates are inching closer to a record low.

The window of opportunity may close soon. Home loan rates will rise if investors grow more confident … Read more »».

NY court dismisses Costa Rican photogs’ lawsuit against NFL’s Tom Brady, model Gisele Bundchen

NY court dismisses suit against Brady, Bundchen

NEW YORK – A New York judge has dismissed a lawsuit by two photographers who said they were shot at by bodyguards of New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady and Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bundchen (jih-ZEHL’ BUN’-chen).
The April 2009 incident occurred during a party in Costa Rica celebrating the couple’s … Read more »».

IWC chief optimistic nations can settle whaling deal; US says difficult negotiations remain

Head of IWC optimistic on whaling deal
WASHINGTON – The head of the International Whaling Commission is optimistic that nations gathering in Morocco next month can settle a long-running dispute over whale hunting.

But a senior U.S. official says there are difficult negotiations ahead over a contentious IWC proposal that would effectively allow commercial whaling for the … Original article on : IWC chief optimistic nations can settle whaling deal; US says difficult negotiations remain.

J. Crew Group doubles net income in first quarter, raises guidance for fiscal year

J. Crew doubles 1Q net income, raises guidance

NEW YORK – Catalog retailer J. Crew Group Inc. doubled its first-quarter net income as revenue soared nearly 20 percent and raised its guidance for the year above estimates.
The clothing retailer said Thursday it earned $44.7 million, or 68 cents per share, in the three months that ended …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : J. Crew Group doubles net income in first quarter, raises guidance for fiscal year.

Summary Box: Home sales, manufacturing lift economy in April

Summary Box: Home sales lift economy in April

ORDERS UP: Orders for large manufactured goods increased 2.9 percent in April on rising demand for commercial aircraft.
HOUSING SALES: Sales of new single-family homes surged 14.8 percent as buyers rushed to take advantage of expiring tax credits.
OUTLOOK: Economists say the second quarter has gotten off to a good … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Summary Box: Home sales, manufacturing lift economy in April.

Shutdown hits life in Telangana, bus services halted

HYDERABAD – Hundreds of commuters were stranded as government-run bus services came to a halt in Telangana Saturday after mobs attacked vehicles in several places during a daylong shutdown called by pro-Telangana groups against the firing on protesters in Warangal district, officials said.

At least six private buses and one state-owned Road Transport Corporation (RTC) bus …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Shutdown hits life in Telangana, bus services halted.

Jindal finally enters Nepal’s hydropower sector

KATHMANDU – After Indian infrastructure company GMR broke the ice in Nepal’s hydropower sector and entered the Himalayan republic with a licence to develop the 900 MW Upper Karnali hydropower project, a string of other Indian firms have turned their attention to Nepal, with GMR’s competitor Jindal being the latest entrant.

Jindal, which had even gone …. Original article  : Jindal finally enters Nepal’s hydropower sector.

Sensex rises in tandem with world markets (Weekly market review)

MUMBAI – Indian equities advanced this week as concern about the euro zone debt crisis eased a bit after China assured the world it was not selling European bonds and investors and traders indulged in some bottom fishing after last week’s sell-off.

Market sentiment was also boosted by a rapprochement between the Ambani brothers. Mukesh …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Chinese tobacco industries target women consumers

NEW DELHI – Chinese tobacco industries have now shifted their focus to women as their targets for selling cigarettes, creating a surge in the number of women smokers in the country.

The 2010 China Tobacco Control Report says that 3 …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

BP, Western Union, Costco, Yahoo, Tiffany among big market movers Thursday

BP, Western Union, Costco, Yahoo among big movers

NEW YORK – Stocks that moved substantially or traded heavily Thursday on the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq Stock Market:
NYSE:
BP PLC, up $2.97 at $45.38
The Coast Guard and BP said an untested procedure to stop the massive Gulf oil spill by injecting mud seemed to be working.
Western … Original article on : BP, Western Union, Costco, Yahoo, Tiffany among big market movers Thursday.

House approves proposal to end ‘don’t ask, don’t tell;’ Senate panel also votes for repeal

House votes to repeal ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’
WASHINGTON – The House has voted to repeal the 1993 law known as “don’t ask, don’t tell” and allow gays to serve openly in the military.
The House vote Thursday came several hours after the Senate Armed Services Committee took the same course and approved a measure …. Original article  : House approves proposal to end ‘don’t ask, don’t tell;’ Senate panel also votes for repeal.

After devastating fire, Universal Studios gets its own happy ending with reopening of backlot

Universal gets happy ending with new backlot

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. – Hollywood loves a sequel, and Universal Studios got one of its own.
The studio officially reopened its new backlot on Thursday, two years after a fire decimated the popular filming area.
The $200 million project will once again allow filmmakers to shoot on the streets of New … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : After devastating fire, Universal Studios gets its own happy ending with reopening of backlot.

Obama, Senate GOP talk border security budget durkng ‘frank’ private meeting

Obama, Senate GOP, talk border security, budget
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama and Senate Republicans called a high-noon cease-fire in their long-running political feud Tuesday, holding a rare, private meeting on Capitol Hill to discuss what legislation can be achieved during this volatile election year.
“We want to see if we can get some more … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Obama, Senate GOP talk border security budget durkng ‘frank’ private meeting.

Road construction at Zion National Park to shut down east entrance on weekdays until Oct. 28

Road work at Zion park to close east entrance

SALT LAKE CITY – Major road work starting June 7 will shut down Zion National Park’s east entrance at times.
The national park says the Mount Carmel Junction Road will be closed weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. until Oct. 28.
It’s the first major reconstruction since state … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Road construction at Zion National Park to shut down east entrance on weekdays until Oct. 28.

Survey finds most big companies plan to keep offering health benefits despite reform costs

Survey: Big companies expect reform to raise costs

INDIANAPOLIS – Big companies think health care reform will hike their costs, but most expect to continue offering subsidized benefits to workers, according to a new Towers Watson study.
The benefits consultant surveyed 661 companies this month and found that 94 percent of those that responded believe the reform … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Survey finds most big companies plan to keep offering health benefits despite reform costs.

Iberdrola selling 3 natural gas utilities; proceeds to finance Maine power grid improvements

Iberdrola deal to finance Maine power grid upgrade

PORTLAND, Maine – The parent company of Central Maine Power is selling three natural gas utilities in New England to help pay for a $1.4 billion power grid upgrade in Maine that’s aimed at assuring reliability and creating capacity for future wind power projects in the state.
Utility company …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Questions over MLS players caused Klinsmann to break off US talks

Klinsmann broke off US talks partly over MLS

BRISTOL, Conn. – Juergen Klinsmann broke off talks to become coach of the U.S. soccer team in 2006 because he wasn’t guaranteed top players the following summer for two preparation tournaments ahead of World Cup qualifying.
The former German national team coach, who will be an ESPN analyst for … Read : Questions over MLS players caused Klinsmann to break off US talks.

UK regulator criticizes Kraft Inc. for promising to keep Cadbury factory open, later recanting

UK regulator criticizes Kraft on Cadbury takeover

LONDON – The British agency which regulates business takeovers on Wednesday criticized U.S. food company Kraft Inc. for promising to keep a Cadbury factory open, then changing its mind after taking control of the British chocolate company.
The Takeover Panel Executive said Kraft did not have a reasonable basis to … Read more »».

Summary Box: Surging home sales likely to fizzle despite low rates

Summary Box: Home sales rise but may soon fizzle

HOME SALES RISE: A now-expired homebuyer tax credit and low mortgage rates helped boost sales of previously occupied homes by 7.6 percent in April.
MORTGAGE RATES FALL: Worries over the European debt crisis have sent investors into the safety of U.S. Treasury bonds. As a result, the average … Read more »».

Animal welfare group: Video shows Ohio cows beaten with crowbars, stabbed with pitchforks

Welfare group: Hidden video shows Ohio cows beaten

CLEVELAND – An animal welfare group said Tuesday that a graphic video it secretly recorded shows workers at a dairy farm beating cows with crowbars, stabbing them with pitchforks and punching them in their heads.
The video was recorded in an undercover investigation at Conklin Dairy Farms Inc., said …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Animal welfare group: Video shows Ohio cows beaten with crowbars, stabbed with pitchforks.

Earnings roundup: Toll Brothers income nearly doubles, Sigma Designs 1Q profit drops 59 pct

Earnings roundup: Toll Brothers, Sigma Designs

Among the earnings stories for Wednesday, May 26, from AP Financial News:
SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP) – VeriFone Systems Inc.’s fiscal second-quarter net income nearly doubled as its technology helped process more electronic payments to businesses and government agencies.
MILPITAS, Calif. (AP) – Chip designer Sigma Designs Inc. said that its first-quarter … Read more : Earnings roundup: Toll Brothers income nearly doubles, Sigma Designs 1Q profit drops 59 pct.

Crystal Bowersox’ hometown fans say ‘American Idol’ runner-up still a winner in their eyes

‘Idol’ runner-up still hero in struggling hometown

TOLEDO, Ohio – Crystal Bowersox’ second-place finish on “American Idol” didn’t change how people on her home turf feel about her.
“She’s already won” said Judi Clapper, 60, of Whitehouse, who watched the results of the Fox singing competition Wednesday night at one of the bars where Bowersox first started … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Crystal Bowersox’ hometown fans say ‘American Idol’ runner-up still a winner in their eyes.

IMF sees economic rebound in Mideast, North Africa on oil’s strength, warns over banks

IMF: Mideast, NAfrica economies rebounding in 2010

CAIRO – Mideast and North African oil exporters will see a “strong recovery” in 2010, pulled ahead by increasing capital inflows and oil prices, the International Monetary Fund said Tuesday even as it lowered its projection for the countries’ growth amid a sharp drop in oil prices and worries … Read more »»».

Analyst sees Origin Agritech shares more than doubling as revenue, market share grow

Analyst expects Origin Agritech shares to rise

NEW YORK – Shares of Origin Agritech Ltd. jumped more than 20 percent Monday after a Rodman & Renshaw analyst raised his price target on the Chinese agricultural biotechnology company’s stock.
Analyst Lewis Fan said the bioengineered hybrid seed market is expected to double over the next five years. So, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Analyst sees Origin Agritech shares more than doubling as revenue, market share grow.

Asia stocks rebound, but investors wary of Europe debt crisis, Korean tension

Asian stocks up, but traders wary on Europe, Korea

SINGAPORE – Asian stock markets rebounded Wednesday on bargain-hunting following steep losses, but investors traded with caution on growing fears that Europe’s debt crisis could hamper global economic growth.
Oil, meanwhile, rose above $69 a barrel as a drop in U.S. gasoline supplies and gains in stock markets … Read : Asia stocks rebound, but investors wary of Europe debt crisis, Korean tension.

Many Americans dogged by debt stress, despite whittling down IOUs, improved national economy

Poll finds debt-dogged Americans stressed out

WASHINGTON – The economy trudges ahead yet debt dogs many Americans, stressing them out even as they firm up their own financial foundations.
There are new jobs produced but old worries persisting for people despite belt-tightening and boosted savings, according to an Associated Press-GfK poll.
About 46 percent of those surveyed say … Original article on : Many Americans dogged by debt stress, despite whittling down IOUs, improved national economy.

Sweet cherries gone sour for Himachal growers

SHIMLA – A bumper sweet cherry crop this year has gone sour for farmers in Himachal Pradesh. The high yield has pushed prices so low that growers are getting 25 to 35 percent less than what they received last year.

Horticulture department officials say the total cherry production is set to touch a record 1,000 …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Sweet cherries gone sour for Himachal growers.

India’s train to Taipei: Business, Bollywood, Buddhism

TAIPEI – The three Bs of business, Bollywood and Buddhism are set to bring India and Taiwan closer as the self-ruled island and tech mecca – encouraged by the thaw with China – looks afresh at India as a rising Asian power and burgeoning market.

“Taiwan can’t put all the eggs in one basket. We are …. Read the original article  : India’s train to Taipei: Business, Bollywood, Buddhism.

Kingfisher, Finnair voted among best carriers

LONDON – Vijay Mallya-led Kingfisher Airlines has been voted the best Indian carrier and Finnair the best in north Europe in a global survey by an independent research agency — often called the Oscars of airline industry.

Kingfisher got the honours under three categories — best airline in India and Central Asia, best economy class seats …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Fertiliser sector reforms will attract fresh investments (Comment)

The fertiliser sector in India has been through difficult times in recent years. Stagnant production, no fresh investment and poor financial health of the units were accompanied by high level of import, imbalanced use of nutrients and deteriorating soil health. Mounting subsidy bill posed a serious fiscal management problem to the government.

Industry has been pursuing … Original article on : Fertiliser sector reforms will attract fresh investments (Comment).

Krishna to address US high-powered industry meet

WASHINGTON – Indian External Affairs S. M. Krishna will deliver a keynote address at the US-India Business Council’s (USIBC) 35th Annual General Meeting to share India’s vision for the US-India strategic partnership.

Recognizing the vital role industry plays in shaping the policy of governments, Krishna will be calling on US industry on June 2 in advance … Read more : Krishna to address US high-powered industry meet.

Venice-like tourist city coming up in China

BEIJING – China is contemplating building a tourist destination worth 60 billion yuan ($8.8 billion) on the lines of Venice, a city covering over 100 small islands inter-connected by lagoons.

The “water-themed” tourist city in Kaixian county in Chongqing, southwest China, will be about 50 sq km large. It will have a 200-hectare wetland park and …. Original source  : Venice-like tourist city coming up in China.

Call for public-private alliance to ensure safe cities

NEW DELHI – The government should partner with private companies to set up an integrated security system at the local and national levels in view of rising threats from terrorists and left-wing extremists, says an industry lobby.

“Emerging security trends transcend public-private barrier and there is an imperative need to evolve a structured and regular interaction …. Original source  : Call for public-private alliance to ensure safe cities.

Lawyers offer to reduce fees in 9/11 health case in attempt to save settlement

Lawyers offer to reduce fees in 9/11 health case

NEW YORK – Lawyers for thousands of ground zero workers suing over their exposure to dust from the destroyed World Trade Center have offered to lower their legal fees in an attempt to salvage a major settlement in the case.
The law firm Worby Groner Edelman & Napoli … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Lawyers offer to reduce fees in 9/11 health case in attempt to save settlement.

Businesses, homeowners appeal Michigan tax bills as they seek relief in difficult economy

Businesses, homeowners appeal Michigan tax bills

DETROIT – A record number of Michigan property owners are appealing their property tax assessments as small-claim homeowners and high-stakes businesses seek relief in a difficult economy.
The wave of appeals to the Michigan Tax Tribunal could decimate the budgets of local governments. The deadline for larger appeals above $20,000 is … Read more : Businesses, homeowners appeal Michigan tax bills as they seek relief in difficult economy.

Creditors seek to force Texas Rangers holding companies into bankruptcy case

Rangers creditors seek to expand bankruptcy case

FORT WORTH, Texas – Creditors for the Texas Rangers are seeking to expand the baseball team’s recently filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy by forcing two of the club’s equity holding firms into the case.
A group of creditors that holds some of the $525 million in team debt filed involuntary bankruptcy …. Original source  : Creditors seek to force Texas Rangers holding companies into bankruptcy case.

Washington state officials say BP won’t appeal citation for 13 safety violations at refinery

BP won’t appeal fine for Wash. refinery violations

BLAINE, Wash. – The Washington state Department of Labor and Industries says the BP Cherry Point petroleum refinery will not appeal a citation issued earlier this month for 13 safety violations.
The violations carry a fine of $69,200.
The department says the petroleum refinery failed to follow rules for managing …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Washington state officials say BP won’t appeal citation for 13 safety violations at refinery.

Debt crisis in EU states will impact Indian exports

BRUSSELS – The current debt crisis in some European Union member states will have a negative impact on Indian exports and the Indian stock market, a top official said Saturday.

At least 27 percent of India’s trade is with Europe and the crisis will impact India’s export to the region, Sunil Prasad, the Europe India Chamber … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Debt crisis in EU states will impact Indian exports.

When it comes to budget cuts, states are passing the buck to cash-strapped local governments

States passing budget cuts onto local governments

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Confronted with severe revenue shortfalls, some states have found a convenient way of softening painful cutbacks and avoiding statewide tax increases: They’ve passed the buck to their counterparts in cities and counties.
Traditionally, many states help bear the cost of jailing inmates, paving roads, running libraries … Original source on Gaea Times at : When it comes to budget cuts, states are passing the buck to cash-strapped local governments.

Opponents of Arizona immigration law march on state Capitol; supporters plan evening rally

Immigration law protesters march on Ariz. Capitol
PHOENIX – Thousands of people from around the country marched to the Arizona state Capitol on Saturday to protest the state’s tough new crackdown on illegal immigration.
Opponents of the law suspended their boycott against Arizona and bused in protesters from around the country. Organizers said … Original article on : Opponents of Arizona immigration law march on state Capitol; supporters plan evening rally.

Correction: Motorola personnel story

Correction: Motorola personnel story
NEW YORK – In a story and headline May 28 about Motorola Inc., The Associated Press reported erroneously that the company has increased the severance package that co-CEO Greg Brown can walk away with if he does not become the sole chief executive next year. In an amended employment agreement, Motorola increased …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Correction: Motorola personnel story.

3G auction revenue to reduce fiscal deficit: Pranab

BANGALORE – Revenue generated from the auction of third generation (3G) spectrum license would help the government in reducing the fiscal deficit, Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee said here late Saturday.

“The revenue generated by the distribution of 3G spectrum license will reduce the fiscal deficit and provide elbow room to return to the fiscal consolidation …. Source  : 3G auction revenue to reduce fiscal deficit: Pranab.

FIFA says 100,000 World Cup tickets sold in less than 2 days in final sales phase

FIFA: 100,000 WCup tickets sold in 2 days
JOHANNESBURG – FIFA says 100,000 World Cup tickets have been sold in less than two days as local fans make a late push to attend the tournament.

FIFA said Saturday that 14 matches were sold out, including the final, semifinals and South Africa’s group games.
An extra 90,000 tickets, mainly …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : FIFA says 100,000 World Cup tickets sold in less than 2 days in final sales phase.

Germany’s Angela Merkel goes from glory to disgrace over handling of Europe’s financial crisis

German leader Merkel goes from glories to disgrace

BERLIN – It was only nine months ago that Forbes magazine named German Chancellor Angela Merkel the world’s most powerful woman for the fourth year in a row.
She impressed Germans and foreigners alike with her ascent to power – an East German pastor’s daughter who took control of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Aid flotilla bound for Gaza faces delays, loss of ships and key members of delegation

Flotilla bound for Gaza delayed, loses key members

JERUSALEM – Ships carrying 10,000 tons of supplies and hundreds of pro-Palestinian activists to blockaded Gaza were being held up near Cyprus on Saturday, as organizers tried to get nearly two dozen high-profile supporters on board.
The flotilla was initially to set sail toward Gaza on Saturday afternoon, and … Original source on Gaea Times at : Aid flotilla bound for Gaza faces delays, loss of ships and key members of delegation.