Jharkhand seeks Rs.3,000 crore for drought relief

RANCHI – The Jharkhand government has sought Rs.3,000-crore assistance from the centre to mitigate the effects of drought due to inadequate rains this year.

The government has also opened control rooms at the panchayat level to monitor the relief work and cancelled leave of all field-level officials.
A central team last week visited the state to … Read : Jharkhand seeks Rs.3,000 crore for drought relief.

Asian stock markets mixed on economic pessimism, Australia falls on tight election result

Asia shares mixed on economic pessimism, Europe up

BANGKOK – Asian markets were mixed Monday as pessimism about the world economy deepened and Australian stocks faltered on the likelihood of a weak minority government following weekend elections. European shares opened higher.
The lackluster showing in Asia came after Wall Street closed lower on Friday with sentiment in [..] Read the original article: here.

Officials to vote on plan to let billionaire build art museum on 2.5 acres in downtown LA

Decision looms for billionaire’s LA museum plan

LOS ANGELES – Officials are set to vote on a plan to let billionaire Eli Broad build a museum for his contemporary art collection in downtown Los Angeles.
The Grand Avenue Committee of state and local officials will decide Monday whether to lease 2.5 acres of county-owned land to Broad, … Read more »»».

Delhi women to get free bus rides on Rakhi day

NEW DELHI – Women in the capital city can enjoy a free ride in public buses Tuesday on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan, Chief Minister Shiela Dikshit announced Monday.

“Women in Delhi would be able to travel free of cost in DTC (Delhi Transport Corporation) buses on Raksha Bandhan day. The decision has been taken …. Source article  : Delhi women to get free bus rides on Rakhi day.

Mahindra inks pact to acquire Ssangyong Motors

MUMBAI – Indian automobile major Mahindra and Mahindra (M&M) Monday entered into an agreement with Ssangyong Motor to acquire a majority stake in the South Korean sport utility vehicle maker and expand its business in international markets.

“M&M today (Monday) signed an MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) with Ssangyong Motor Company (SMC) to acquire a majority stake …. Source  : Mahindra inks pact to acquire Ssangyong Motors.

China offers ‘anger-release’ service for netizens

BEIJING – More than 400 online stores in China are providing “anger-release” service to their customers who wish to get rid of their mental stress caused by family matters, studies and pressure at work places.

According to online shopping website Taobao, such stores have become popular among young netizens who are ready to pay the shop … Read : China offers ‘anger-release’ service for netizens.

Highlights of Pittsburgh Pirate financial statements

Highlights of Pirate financial statements
PITTSBURGH – Highlights of the Pirates’ 2007-08 financial statements, as obtained by the Associated Press:

???????????????2008??????????????????????????????2007?????????
Gate receipts ???$32,129,368?????????$34,422,355
Revenue sharing ???$39,046,312?????????$30,302,652
Total club-generated income ???$76,017,669?????????$74,990,600
MLB revenue …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Highlights of Pittsburgh Pirate financial statements.

Tata Global Beverages may diversify into food business

KOLKATA – Tata Global Beverages (TGB), previously known as Tata Tea, may diversify into food business, Tata group chairman Ratan Tata said here Monday.

“Change in name (has been) done to reflect change in business of the company, which going forward would be more and more beverages and eventually and possibly into food,” Tata said while …. Read the original article  : Tata Global Beverages may diversify into food business.

Australian mining stocks rise over election uncertain as leader urges business as usual

Australian mining stocks rise on poll uncertainty

CANBERRA, Australia – Stocks in Australia’s biggest mining companies rose Monday as the government’s plans for a new tax on their profits were thrown into doubt after the nation’s closest election in almost 50 years delivered no clear mandate.
Trading in the rest of the market was flat, however, and …. Read the original article  : here.

Sensex choppy, Asian cues weak

MUMBAI – A benchmark index for Indian equities Monday was choppy amid negative cues from other Asian markets.

Weighing the markets down were FMCG stocks, while consumer durables, metal and PSU scrips were under selling pressure.
The 30-scrip sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), which opened at 18,400.33 points, was at 18,432.48 points, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Sensex choppy, Asian cues weak.

Two lakh Bihar government employees on strike

PATNA – More than two lakh employees of the Bihar government Monday went on an indefinite strike demanding implementation of recommendations of the sixth pay commission in “letter and spirit”.

The Bihar State Non-Gazetted Employees Federation (BSNGEF) called for the strike in support of their seven point charter of demands.
The federation leaders claimed that …. Source  : Two lakh Bihar government employees on strike.

New York leads US list in new jobs

NEW YORK – New York leads a list of cities in the US that are poised to offer the maximum number of new jobs in the country after the global recession, an astounding figure of 600,000.

Unemployment in New York now stands below the national average, and the city will soon offer a total of 578,897 …. Read the original article  : here.

Chinese locomotive company makes India foray

BEIJING – China’s Zhuzhou Electric Locomotive Company Limited (ZELC), one of the country’s biggest locomotive makers, has earned over $700 million from contracts with India, Malaysia, Singapore and Saudi Arabia. In June this year it signed a contract to supply subway trains to India.

ZELC, a subsidiary of China South Locomotive & Rolling (CSR), …. Original article  : Chinese locomotive company makes India foray.

Asian stock markets mixed on economic pessimism, Australia takes hung parliament in stride

Asian shares mixed on economic pessimism
BANGKOK – Asian markets were mixed Monday as pessimism about the world economy deepened and Australian stocks faltered on the likelihood of a weak minority government following weekend elections.

The lackluster showing in Asia came after Wall Street closed lower on Friday with sentiment in the doldrums because of the recent … Read : Asian stock markets mixed on economic pessimism, Australia takes hung parliament in stride.

China says to consider dropping death penalty for economic crimes

China may drop death penalty for economic crimes

BEIJING – China, which executes more people each year than any other country, said Monday it is considering dropping capital punishment for economic crimes.
A draft amendment to the country’s criminal code proposes cutting 13 “economy-related, non-violent offenses” from the list of 68 crimes punishable by the death penalty, …. Original source  : China says to consider dropping death penalty for economic crimes.

Food security stalls China’s quest for new energy

BEIJING – Corn-based ethanol fuel could help reduce vehicular emissions in China but high production costs and large population have hindered its growth in the country, say experts.

China launched a pilot project in 2004 to produce ethanol fuel in an effort to cut emissions from vehicles that depend on traditional fuels like petrol, and advance … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Food security stalls China’s quest for new energy.

Money Market Operations as on August 20, 2010

… Original article on : Money Market Operations as on August 20, 2010.

Asian stock markets mixed; Australia shares flat amid political uncertainty

Asian shares mixed after tight Australia elections

TOKYO – Asian stock markets were mixed in early trading Monday, with Australian shares flat amid uncertainty over the result of weekend federal elections.
The S&P/ASX 200 inched up 0.1 percent to 4,434.0 as Australia’s two major political parties lobbied independent lawmakers to try to stitch together the nation’s first …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Asian stock markets mixed; Australia shares flat amid political uncertainty.

Team documents show Pirates make money even during record-setting losing streak

Financial records show Pirates win while losing

PITTSBURGH – Don’t feel too sorry for the cellar-dwelling Pittsburgh Pirates. Losing has been profitable.
The Pirates made nearly $29.4 million in 2007 and 2008, according to team financial documents, years that were part of a streak of futility that has now reached 18 straight losing seasons. The team’s ownership …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Paraguay’s president will work from home while undergoing chemotherapy for lymphatic cancer

Paraguay’s president works from home during chemo

ASUNCION, Paraguay – Paraguayan President Fernando Lugo will conduct his official duties from home while he undergoes chemotherapy for lymphatic cancer, the government said Sunday.
Earlier in the day, a physician, Alfredo Boccia, had said Lugo was doing well 10 days after this first chemotherapy session, but should avoid contact …. Read the original article  : here.

EIH sees traction in revenues, apprehends pressure on margins

KOLKATA – East India Hotels, which runs the Oberoi and Trident chains, expects an increase in occupancy levels and average room rates along with a rise in inbound tourists this fiscal, though there could be pressures on margins due to inflation.

“I expect demand to grow as the financial year progresses. Room rate would begin … Read more : EIH sees traction in revenues, apprehends pressure on margins.

World stock markets fall as economy worries linger; Nikkei dragged by strong yen

World stock markets fall as economy worries linger

BANGKOK – World stock markets retreated Tuesday as the strong yen knocked Japanese shares and investors anticipated more bad news from U.S. economic reports this week.
Markets have spent most of August in the red as economic indicators from the U.S., China, Japan and elsewhere suggested global growth will …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : World stock markets fall as economy worries linger; Nikkei dragged by strong yen.

Himachal installs anti-hail guns to protect fruit crop

SHIMLA – Himachal Pradesh has installed anti-hail guns, the first in the country, to protect its fruit cros from hailstorms, a minister said here Tuesday.

“Three anti-hails have been installed in fruit-growing belts of Shimla district under a pilot project. More guns would be installed in other areas if the project is successful,” Horticulture Minister Narender …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Himachal installs anti-hail guns to protect fruit crop.

Environmental clearance denied to Vedanta project (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – Environment and Forest Minister Jairam Ramesh Tuesday formally rejected London-listed Vedanata’s bauxite mining project in Orissa, saying the company has violated environment norms.

“The Saxena Committee report, recommendations from the FAC (Forest Advisory Committee) and legal opinion of the attorney general have been taken into consideration and on the basis of which the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Environmental clearance denied to Vedanta project (Second Lead).

Honolulu’s long-standing trash woes get short-term solution, but bigger problem looms

Honolulu’s long-standing trash woes growing worse

HONOLULU – Gigantic piles of shrink-wrapped garbage have been moldering in the heat of a Hawaii industrial park for more than five months, waiting for a place to be shipped.
That wait appeared to end Monday when city officials inked a deal to dispose of the 40 million-pound pile of odious …. Source  : Honolulu’s long-standing trash woes get short-term solution, but bigger problem looms.

Unsafe electronic voting machines: Shooting the messenger (Comment)

Over the weekend, the Indian establishment demonstrated how bizarre the mix of political insecurity, intolerance to criticism, and sheer stupidity could be. Mumbai police arrested Hari K. Prasad, chief of Indian research and development firm Netindia.

The reason: Prasad is member of a team of security researchers, including American computer scientist J. Alex Halderman, who …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Unsafe electronic voting machines: Shooting the messenger (Comment).

Oil falls to near $72 in Asia in line with weaker equities amid economic fears

Oil falls to near $72 in Asia on economic fears

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Oil prices sank to near $72 a barrel Tuesday in Asia as regional markets fell amid fresh concerns about the pace of the global economic recovery.
Benchmark crude for October delivery was down 84 cents at $72.26 a barrel at midday Kuala Lumpur …. Read the original article  : Oil falls to near $72 in Asia in line with weaker equities amid economic fears.

Sensex in the red, Asian cues mixed

MUMBAI – A benchmark index for Indian equities Tuesday slipped further into the red during noon trade and was ruling 73 points lower than its previous close.

The 30-scrip sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), which opened at 18,407.01 points, was at 18,335.48 points, 73.87 points or 0.4 percent down from its … Read : Sensex in the red, Asian cues mixed.

In it for the long haul: China’s traffic jam stretching as long as 100 km could last for weeks

China’s massive traffic jam could last for weeks

BEIJING – A massive traffic jam in north China that stretches for dozens of miles and hit its 10-day mark on Tuesday stems from road construction in Beijing that won’t be finished until the middle of next month, an official said.
Bumper-to-bumper gridlock spanning for 60 miles (100 kilometers) … Original article on : In it for the long haul: China’s traffic jam stretching as long as 100 km could last for weeks.

Green car made of cannabis on its way

VANCOUVER – More than a dozen Canadian companies have joined hands to produce a ‘green’ car made of hemp.

To be run on electricity, the prototype design of the car – to be called Kestrel – will be unveiled at the Electric Mobility Show here next month.
A consortium of 15 Canadian companies will design the …. Original source  : Green car made of cannabis on its way.

Vedanta environmental clearance scrapped

NEW DELHI – The environmental clearance for the Vedanta projects in Orissa has been scrapped, Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh said Tuesday.
… Read more : Vedanta environmental clearance scrapped.

Ecuador’s oil exports up almost 74 percent

Quito, Aug 24 (IANS/EFE) Ecuador’s oil exports rose almost 74 percent in the first half of 2010 compared to the same period last year, although that increase was due entirely to higher prices, the Central Bank said.

Between January and June, the value of the country’s oil exports totalled almost $4.67 billion, up from $2.68 billion …. Source article  : Ecuador’s oil exports up almost 74 percent.

Honolulu agrees to dispose of tons of trash that was to be shipped to Washington state

Honolulu agrees to accept tons of trash
HONOLULU – Honolulu on Monday agreed to dispose of 20,000 tons worth of gigantic piles of shrink-wrapped garbage that have been moldering in the heat of a Hawaii industrial park where it had been waiting for more than five months for a possible shipment to Washington state.

Acting Mayor Kirk …. Source article  : Honolulu agrees to dispose of tons of trash that was to be shipped to Washington state.

Oil falls below $73 in Asia in line with weaker equities amid economic fears

Oil falls below $73 in Asia on economic fears

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Oil prices fell below $73 a barrel in Asia on Tuesday as regional markets remained muted amid fresh concerns about the pace of the global economic recovery.
Benchmark crude for October delivery was down 18 cents at $72.92 a barrel at midday Kuala Lumpur … Read more : Oil falls below $73 in Asia in line with weaker equities amid economic fears.

PepsiCo’s reformulates Quaker instant oatmeal, rolls out new products to revive brand

PepsiCo hopes to revive Quaker with new products

NEW YORK – PepsiCo Inc. is hoping to revive its Quaker division with new types of cereal, a reformulation of its instant oatmeal and a new marketing campaign.
The brand’s trademark hot and cold cereals have been hurting in the down economy as people shift away from name brands … Read more : PepsiCo’s reformulates Quaker instant oatmeal, rolls out new products to revive brand.

Money Market Operations as on August 23, 2010

… Original source on Gaea Times at : Money Market Operations as on August 23, 2010.

Asian stock markets fall after lackluster Wall Street finish; Nikkei dragged by strong yen

Asian stock markets fall as economy worries linger

BANGKOK – Asian stocks markets retreated Tuesday led by Japan as the yen climbed and investors anticipated more bad news from U.S. economic reports this week.
The region’s markets have spent most of August in the red as economic indicators from the U.S., China, Japan and elsewhere suggested global …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Asian stock markets fall after lackluster Wall Street finish; Nikkei dragged by strong yen.

Disgruntled secured creditors trying to block Arizona grocer’s emergence from Chapter 11

Bashas’ reorganization plan appealed by creditors

PHOENIX – Disgruntled secured creditors of Bashas’ Inc. are trying to block the Arizona grocer’s emergence from bankruptcy under the current court-approved plan.
The company’s bondholders and former bankers have asked the U.S. Bankruptcy Court to delay implementation of Bashas’ Chapter 11 reorganization plan while they appeal its Aug. 13 confirmation …. Source article  : Disgruntled secured creditors trying to block Arizona grocer’s emergence from Chapter 11.

Major delays forecast after fire near station on NY’s LIRR, largest US commuter train system

Delays forecast on NY’s huge Long Island Rail Road

NEW YORK – Passengers traveling in New York City and its suburbs on the nation’s largest commuter train system can expect major headaches.
The Long Island Rail Road says there will be significant schedule changes and delays during Tuesday’s rush hours after an electrical fire in a switching … Read more : Major delays forecast after fire near station on NY’s LIRR, largest US commuter train system.

California to delay payments to schools, counties a month sooner than expected

California to delay payments sooner than expected

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, the state controller and treasurer decided Monday to delay $2.9 billion a month in payments to school districts and counties sooner than expected so the state can meet debt and pension obligations.
The leaders issued a joint letter notifying state lawmakers of their decision … Original article on : California to delay payments to schools, counties a month sooner than expected.

German business confidence continues its upward trend in August

German business confidence up again
BERLIN – A leading economic survey shows Germany’s business confidence has maintained its upward trend in August.

The Ifo research institute, based in Munich, said on Wednesday its closely watched business confidence index rose to 106.7 points from 106.2 points in July.
The institute said that companies planned to hire more people, despite … Read : German business confidence continues its upward trend in August.

Iran says it successfully test-fires new generation of the short-range Fateh-110 missile

Iran says it test-fires new missile
TEHRAN, Iran – Iran said Wednesday that has it successfully test-fired an upgraded version of a short-range surface-to-surface missile.

Defense Minister Gen. Ahmad Vahidi said the third generation of the Fateh-110, which means “conqueror” in Farsi and Arabic, is equipped with a high accuracy guidance control system. He said the solid-fuel … Read more »».

Heineken H1 profits rise 42 percent on one-time gain, cost cutting

Heineken H1 profit rises on one-time gains

AMSTERDAM – Heineken NV, the world’s third-largest brewer, said Wednesday its first-half net profit rose by 42 percent thanks to one-time financial gains, cost cutting and positive currency effects.
The maker of Amstel and Dos Equis said net profit was ???695 million ($881 million), up from ???489 million in the … Read more : Heineken H1 profits rise 42 percent on one-time gain, cost cutting.

Nepal’s continuing political turmoil stalls government, development projects and peace process

Nepal struggles amid political turmoil
KATMANDU, Nepal – A power battle that has left Nepal’s political system in limbo for months has also frozen efforts to solidify peace, write a constitution and push ahead with development in this desperately poor nation.

With no one in charge, plans to build badly needed rural roads, increase electricity generation in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nepal’s continuing political turmoil stalls government, development projects and peace process.

Chidambaram mulls transfer of funds to police forces

NEW DELHI – In a step likely to be resented by the states, Home Minister P. Chidambaram Wednesday mooted the idea of transferring central funds for modernising police forces to the police chiefs instead of the state governments.

“Should we try to put in place a system for transfer of funds under the MPF (Modernisation …. Source article  : Chidambaram mulls transfer of funds to police forces.

Incumbent GOP Sen. Murkowski struggling in primary; newcomer wins Fla. GOP governor’s race

Alaska GOP Sen. Murkowski in jeopardy
WASHINGTON – Her re-election quest suddenly in jeopardy, Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski struggled to avoid becoming the latest incumbent lawmaker to be fired. She fought against a political novice with the backing of Sarah Palin and tea party activists in a stunningly tight Republican primary race.
With more than … Read : Incumbent GOP Sen. Murkowski struggling in primary; newcomer wins Fla. GOP governor’s race.

California governor considers bill that could make it easier for farmworkers to form unions

Bill in Calif. would help farmworkers form unions

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The temperature was nearly 100 degrees as 17-year-old Maria Vasquez Jimenez pruned grapes for nine hours at a vineyard near Stockton in California’s Central Valley.
By the end of the day, the pregnant teen was dead from heat stroke, and her death set off renewed calls …. Source  : California governor considers bill that could make it easier for farmworkers to form unions.

Thousands flee after Punjab floods

CHANDIGARH – Thousands fled their homes as the rain-swollen Satluj river flooded 15 villages in Anandpur Sahib in Punjab’s Ropar district, inundating vast acres of farmland.

A nearly 100-feet breach in the river bank turned the villages of Laudipur, Gajjpur, Burj, Nangli, Dasdgrain, Hariwal, Nikkuwal, Mehandli Kalan and Saini Majra into a sea of water.
Authorities … Read more »»».

New Medicare rule means more than 3M seniors may have to switch drug plans next year

More than 3M seniors may have to switch drug plans
WASHINGTON – A plan by Medicare to try to make it simpler for consumers to pick drug coverage could force 3 million seniors to switch plans next year whether they like it or not, says an independent analysis.
That risks undercutting President Barack … Original source on Gaea Times at : New Medicare rule means more than 3M seniors may have to switch drug plans next year.

State Bank of Indore branches to operate as State Bank of India branches from August 26, 2010 and not from August 27, 2010

All the branches of State Bank of Indore will function as branches of the State Bank of India from August 26, 2010 and not August 27, 2010 as mentioned in the Reserve Bank press release no 287 issued on August 24, 2010. This is due to the fact that … Read more >>.

Air India to lose Kathmandu-Kolkata monopoly

KATHMANDU – From Oct 1, India’s national carrier Air India will lose its monopoly on the Kolkata-Kathmandu-Kolkata sector with independent Nepali airline Buddha Air beginning its inaugural flights between the two cities.

The 13-year Nepali airline, which went international this month by becoming the first foreign airline to fly to the Buddhist kingdom of Bhutan, may … Original article on : Air India to lose Kathmandu-Kolkata monopoly.

Sensex drops sharply, Asian cues depressing

MUMBAI – A benchmark index for Indian equities Wednesday slipped further into the red during noon trade and was ruling 102 points lower than its previous close, joining other depressed Asian markets.

The 30-scrip sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), which opened at 18,308.51 points, was at 18,208.69 points, 102.9 points or … Read more : Sensex drops sharply, Asian cues depressing.

Koch Industries Inhumanitarian Grounds Exposed

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com) — Koch Industries have come up to the limelight not because it is one of the largest American Oil industry, but because of its poor environmental records. Koch Industries deal in petroleum, natural gas, paper, and all sorts of other resource-depleting industries generating a revenue of around $100 billion. Over the time these … Read more : Koch Industries Inhumanitarian Grounds Exposed.

China bestseller slams Goldman Sachs, as conspiracy theories over crisis crowd shelves

Chinese bestseller slams Goldman Sachs for crisis

SHANGHAI – Goldman Sachs & Co., reviled in the U.S. for its role in the financial crisis, is now getting hammered in the world’s No. 2 economy with a sensationalist new book accusing the investment bank of trying to destroy China.
The “Goldman Sachs Conspiracy,” which has sold over 100,000 … Read more »».

Plunging US home sales spark fears of slower recovery

WASHINGTON – US home sales plunged to their lowest level in 15 years, leading economists to warn that a likely double-dip in housing prices could further slow America’s recovery from its worst downturn in decades.

Existing home sales sank 27.2 percent in July, twice as much as analysts expected, to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of … Read more : Plunging US home sales spark fears of slower recovery.

BlackBerry snaps up California app store developer

TORONTO – With even its updated App World platform offering just 9,500 apps as compared to Apple’s 225,000 and Android store’s 65,000, BlackBerry maker Research In Motion (RIM) has acquired California-based Cellmania which delivers back-end infrastructure for application stores.

Based at Mountain View, Cellmania drives mobile ecosystems for the world’s largest mobile operators, infrastructure providers and … Read : BlackBerry snaps up California app store developer.

Shutdown against Yamuna Express, train stopped near Mathura (Lead, Changing dateline)

LUCKNOW – Farmers in Uttar Pradesh’s Mathura district Wednesday stopped a train and disrupted rail routes while joining in the statewide shutdown called by the Kisan Sangharsh Samiti for enhanced compensation for farmers’ land acquired for the Yamuna Expressway, officials said.

A large number of farmers, backed by the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha, the youth wing … Original article on : Shutdown against Yamuna Express, train stopped near Mathura (Lead, Changing dateline).

Report: Major League Baseball investigation into financial documents focusing on insurance

Report: MLB investigation focusing on insurance

NEW YORK – The New York Times is reporting that Major League Baseball is focusing on leaked financial documents in an investigation on insurance companies that do business with clubs.
The paper reported on its Website on Tuesday night citing two anonymous MLB executives.
The Times reported the companies under investigation sell …. Source article  : Report: Major League Baseball investigation into financial documents focusing on insurance.

High alert as farmers along Yamuna Expressway begin shutdown

AGRA – Farmers demanding higher compensation for their land acquired for the Yamuna Expressway in Uttar Pradesh began a daylong shutdown in Mathura, Agra and Aligarh districts Wednesday, threatening to disrupt road and rail traffic and asking shopkeepers to down shutters.

Security forces were also put on high alert as farmers tried to disrupt rail …. Original article  : High alert as farmers along Yamuna Expressway begin shutdown.

Oil lingers under $72 a barrel in Asia after 13 percent drop over 3 weeks

Oil rises slightly as economic data tempers gains

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Oil prices rose slightly Wednesday in Asia after a 13 percent fall over three weeks drew buyers but weak economic indicators tempered gains.
Benchmark crude for October delivery was up 24 cents at $71.87 a barrel at late afternoon Kuala Lumpur time in electronic trading …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Oil rises above $73 in Asia on bargain hunting as stock markets rise after sell-off

Oil rises above $73 amid stronger stock markets

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Oil prices extended gains to rise above $73 a barrel Thursday in Asia as regional stock markets advanced and recent sharp losses in crude drew more buyers.
Benchmark crude for October delivery was up 72 cents at $73.24 a barrel at late afternoon Kuala Lumpur … Read more »».

TVS to invest Rs.200 crore for capacity expansion

NEW DELHI – Two and three-wheeler maker TVS Motors Thursday said it will invest Rs.200 crore by April next year to increase production to meet rising demand.

“we are increasing our capacity to 28 lakh units from 21 lakh units per annum to meet the growing demand. We will investment Rs.200 crore by April 2011,” … Read this article on Gaea Times at : TVS to invest Rs.200 crore for capacity expansion.

Renault to launch five cars in India

NEW DELHI – French auto major Renault Thursday said it will launch five cars in India between 2011 and 2013.

“We will be launching five cars in India, starting from mid-2011 to mid-2013. We will also launch a small car in the Indian market in 2012,” said Marc Nassif, country general manager, Renault India, on the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Renault to launch five cars in India.

Spain says 2nd quarter GDP decline in annual terms smaller than originally believed

Spain revises Q2 growth figure upward
MADRID – Spain says its economy contracted at an annual rate of 0.1 percent in the second quarter, less than the initial estimate of a 0.2 percent decline.

The National Statistics Institute confirmed its original figure of 0.2 percent growth in the second quarter compared to the first. That marked the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Spain says 2nd quarter GDP decline in annual terms smaller than originally believed.

Textile park to come up in Himachal

SHIMLA – Himachal Pradesh will set up a textile park with an outlay of Rs.107 crore (around $22 million), a minister said here Thursday.

“Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal will lay the foundation stone of the textile park Aug 28 which will come up in Amb tehsil,” Industry Minister Kishan Kapoor told IANS.
He said a … Original article on : Textile park to come up in Himachal.

Philippine president vows punishment in bus hijack, Senate opens investigation

Philippine leader vows punishment in bus hijack

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine president vowed Thursday that “someone will pay” for the bus hostage crisis that killed Hong Kong tourists as senators began grilling senior police officers over the deadly fiasco.
Addressing students and teachers at a suburban university, President Benigno Aquino III said the nearly 12-hour hostage-taking …. Read the original article  : Philippine president vows punishment in bus hijack, Senate opens investigation.

Euro up at $1.2736 after report shows rise in German consumer sentiment

Euro up against the dollar after German report

BERLIN – The euro has gained on the dollar as key indicators showed the German economy, Europe’s largest, is sustaining robust growth.
The 16-nation currency bought $1.2736 in early Thursday trading, up from the $1.2657 it fetched in New York overnight, after an indicator of German business confidence rose …. Source article  : Euro up at $1.2736 after report shows rise in German consumer sentiment.

Supermarket operator Ahold reports 3 percent rise in Q2 profits; US, Dutch margins steady

Ahold reports 3 percent rise in Q2 profits

AMSTERDAM – Royal Ahold NV, the Dutch operator of the Stop & Shop and Giant grocery chains in the United States, said Thursday its second quarter profits rose just three percent due to a loss at its Scandinavian joint venture ICA.
Ahold’s net profit was ???202 million ($256 million) …. Source article  : Supermarket operator Ahold reports 3 percent rise in Q2 profits; US, Dutch margins steady.

Panel scoffs at Mamata’s claim to build 1,000 km of tracks a year

NEW DELHI – A parliamentary panel, mandated to examine Indian Railways’ functioning, has scoffed at Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee’s promise to build 1,000 km of tracks this fiscal and 25,000 km by 2020.

The panel, headed by T.R. Baalu of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), doubts the ministry’s claim, saying the railways have been able to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sensex crawls up in afternoon trade

MUMBAI – A benchmark index for Indian equities crept up in afternoon trade Thursday to rule at 76 points higher, having been range-bound in the morning session.

The 30-scrip sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), which opened at 18,194.78 points, was at 18,255.97 points, 76.33 points or 0.42 percent up from its previous …. Read the original article  : Sensex crawls up in afternoon trade.

Sensex crawls up in afternoon trade

MUMBAI – A benchmark index for Indian equities crept up in afternoon trade Thursday to rule at 76 points higher, having been range-bound in the morning session.

The 30-scrip sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), which opened at 18,194.78 points, was at 18,255.97 points, 76.33 points or 0.42 percent up from its previous … Read more >>.

Food inflation down for second straight week to 10.05 percent

NEW DELHI – India’s food inflation eased to 10.05 percent for the week ended Aug 14 from 10.35 percent a week earlier, official data released Thursday showed.

The government’s decision to freeze exports of food grains and good monsoon rains have had a sobering effect on prices for the second successive week.
The fuel prices … Read more »»».

Thousands of protesting farmers throng parliament

NEW DELHI – Delhi geared up for more traffic trouble Thursday as thousands of farmers congregated outside parliament Thursday to demand enhanced compensation for their lands being acquired for the Yamuna Expressway in Uttar Pradesh, and thousands more were expected to join them.

Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) leader Ajit Singh, Jayant Chaudhary and several farmer leaders …. Original source  : Thousands of protesting farmers throng parliament.

Big in China: Brands import foreign athletes, celebrities to woo Chinese customers

Big in China: Brands import foreign celebrities

BEIJING – Kevin Garnett wore his affection for China’s booming sportswear market on his back as the NBA star arrived in Beijing in August.
“Love China” declared the Boston Celtics power forward’s T shirt. On the front: The angular red slash logo of Anta, the athletic shoe producer that brought …. Original article  : Big in China: Brands import foreign athletes, celebrities to woo Chinese customers.

Garmin Ltd. Recalls 1.3 Million GPS Units

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- On Wednesday, Garmin Ltd. announced that it is recalling around 1.3 million Nuvi GPS devices sold all over the world. The company announced that the recall is being done after it found that the batteries of the units sold have the potential to get overheated and lead to fire hazards. …. Read the original article  : Garmin Ltd. Recalls 1.3 Million GPS Units.

Drinks company Diageo’s full-year profit up 1.5 percent on second-half rebound

Diageo full-year profit up 1.5 percent
LONDON – Diageo PLC, the world’s biggest spirits maker, said Thursday that its full-year profit rose 1.5 percent as sales in emerging markets fueled a rebound from a weak first half.

For the year ending June 30, the maker of Johnnie Walker whisky, Smirnoff vodka and Guinness stout reported a net …. Original article  : Drinks company Diageo’s full-year profit up 1.5 percent on second-half rebound.

Air China says first-half profit up 60 percent as travel, cargo recover from global crisis

Air China says first-half profit up 60 percent

BEIJING – Air China Ltd., one of China’s three major state-owned airlines, said Thursday its first-half profit rose 60 percent over a year earlier as passenger travel and cargo recovered from the global crisis.
Profit for the six months ending June 30 was 4.6 billion yuan ($675 million), or … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Air China says first-half profit up 60 percent as travel, cargo recover from global crisis.

Mazda, Ford to invest $350 million to revamp Thai plant for pickup truck production

Mazda, Ford to invest $350 million in Thai plant

TOKYO – Ford Motor Co. and Mazda Motor Corp. are investing $350 million in their joint venture plant in Thailand to revamp production of pickup trucks, both sides said Thursday.
The investment at AutoAlliance Thailand, a 50-50 joint venture, underlines that four years of political upheaval has not … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Mazda, Ford to invest $350 million to revamp Thai plant for pickup truck production.

Oil extends gains to near $73 in Asia on bargain hunting as stock markets rise after sell-off

Oil rises to near $73 amid stronger stock markets

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Oil prices extended gains to near $73 a barrel Thursday in Asia as regional stock markets rose and recent sharp losses in crude drew more buyers.
Benchmark crude for October delivery was up 32 cents at $72.93 a barrel at midday Kuala Lumpur time …. Read the original article  : Oil extends gains to near $73 in Asia on bargain hunting as stock markets rise after sell-off.

Asian stocks rise modestly amid more weak indicators on US economy

Asian shares snap losing streak but gains modest

SEOUL, South Korea – Most Asian markets rose Thursday, snapping a lengthy losing streak, though apprehension over a slowing U.S. economy capped gains.
Japan’s Nikkei 225 stock average advanced 47.09 points, or 0.5 percent, to 8,892.48 as the yen steadied against the dollar following big gains that have hit … Read more : Asian stocks rise modestly amid more weak indicators on US economy.

IDBI best public sector bank for SME financing: D&B

MUMBAI – IDBI Bank has received the best public sector bank award for financing small and medium enterprises (SMEs) from global business information provider Dun and Bradstreet (D&B).

“IDBI Bank has developed a special business model to serve the SMEs in the country that has enabled the bank to develop a quality SME portfolio through a [..] Read the original article: here.

Euro climbs on the dollar to $1.2724 as markets await Bernanke speech on US economic growth

Euro climbs on dollar ahead of Bernanke speech

BERLIN – The euro is up against the dollar as markets await a speech by the head of the U.S. Federal Reserve for any signs the central bank will take measures to bolster the U.S. economy.
The euro, used by 16 nations, bought $1.2724 early Friday, up from $1.2703 … Read more >>.

UK second quarter growth revised upward to 1.2 pct from preliminary estimate of 1.1 pct

British Q2 economic growth revised up to 1.2 pct

LONDON – A government agency says Britain’s economy grew by 1.2 percent in the second quarter, higher than the preliminary estimate of 1.1 percent released a month ago.
Friday’s release from the Office for National Statistics confirmed that the British economy grew for a third straight quarter, following … Read more : UK second quarter growth revised upward to 1.2 pct from preliminary estimate of 1.1 pct.

China shares rise but gains tempered by mixed earnings from major state-owned companies

China shares rise but earnings temper gains

SHANGHAI – Chinese shares rose Friday but gains were tempered by mixed earnings reports from major companies.
The benchmark Shanghai Composite Index edged up 7.26 points, or 0.3 percent, to close at 2,610.74. For the week, it lost 1.2 percent. The Shenzhen Composite Index for China’s smaller second exchange added … Read more »».

Saab owner Spyker reports $176 million loss in 1H; Saab’s sales down more than 50 percent

Saab owner Spyker posts $176 million loss in 1H

AMSTERDAM – Spyker Cars NV, the owner of Saab Automobile AB, reported a hefty loss Friday for the first half of 2010, as the tiny company absorbed the impact of purchasing the much larger Saab as it was on the verge of liquidation.
Spyker’s net loss was euro139 … Read more : Saab owner Spyker reports $176 million loss in 1H; Saab’s sales down more than 50 percent.

Oil prices ease in Asia to near $73 after 2 days of gains as regional stock markets waver

Oil falls to near $73 as stock markets waver

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Oil prices eased in Asia on Friday after two straight days of gains, taking a cue from regional stock markets which were mixed amid expectations of slower U.S. economic growth.
Benchmark crude for October delivery was down 22 cents at $73.14 a barrel at …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Oil prices ease in Asia to near $73 after 2 days of gains as regional stock markets waver.

Bihar government staff strike hits flood, drought relief

PATNA – The functioning of government offices in Bihar has come to a standstill with the indefinite strike of more than 2.5 lakh state non-gazetted employees continuing fifth day Friday.

The employees of the Bihar government Monday went on an indefinite strike to press their demand for grant of higher remunerations and salaries as recommended by [..] Read the original article: here.

Free of sanctions, Libya reaches out – and up – in boom dubbed by some as the ‘new Dubai’

The ‘new Dubai’? Libya open for business
BENGHAZI, Libya – In the outskirts of this city, Libya’s second largest, row after row of sand-colored concrete apartment blocks and villas are sprouting from the desert. Hundreds of kilometers away, construction cranes dot the Mediterranean skyline of the capital, Tripoli.

The multibillion dollar construction frenzy taking place is the … Read more : Free of sanctions, Libya reaches out – and up – in boom dubbed by some as the ‘new Dubai’.

Putting meals where their mouths are, Obamas choose local produce on Martha’s Vineyard holiday

On Martha’s Vineyard, Obamas savor local produce
VINEYARD HAVEN, Mass. – For a vacationing President Barack Obama, it seems all produce – like politics – is local.
So far, in their only dinner outings since arriving on Martha’s Vineyard last week, the president and his wife have twice eaten at restaurants that feature … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Putting meals where their mouths are, Obamas choose local produce on Martha’s Vineyard holiday.

SPIN METER: Obama administration avoids mention of problems, delays in weatherization program

SPIN METER: What Biden didn’t mention on stimulus
FRESNO, Calif. – Vice President Joe Biden said this week that the Obama administration “hit the accelerator” toward spending $5 billion under the economic stimulus law to weatherize people’s homes, create thousands of jobs, help consumers save money and put the nation …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : SPIN METER: Obama administration avoids mention of problems, delays in weatherization program.

India hopes for Blackberry solution by Aug 31

NEW DELHI – India Friday said the ongoing discussions with Blackberry maker Research in Motion (RIM) would result in a solution, satisfying the country’s security concerns.

“The discussions are still going on. We are not in the business of shutting down services,” Minister of State for Communications Sachin Pilot said on the sidelines of an e-governance [..] Read the original article: here.

Canadian rancher serves cattle red wine, making animals happy and giving meat unique taste

Canadian cattle enjoy red wine with their feed

VANCOUVER, British Columbia – Western Canadian beef producers have found a novel way of putting the “bar” in barbecue.
Angus cattle in British Columbia’s Okanagan wine and cattle region are being fed red wine with their grain. Chefs in this Canadian Pacific Coast province said it makes for a …. Source article  : Canadian rancher serves cattle red wine, making animals happy and giving meat unique taste.

Okla. agency approves $20M bond deal for expansion of Goodyear plant in Lawton

Okla. agency OKs $20M bond deal for Goodyear plant

OKLAHOMA CITY – An Oklahoma agency has approved a $20 million bond deal that will help pay for the expansion of the Goodyear tire-making plant in Lawton.
The Council of Bond Oversight on Thursday authorized the Oklahoma Development Finance Authority to issue $20 million in bonds for the …. Read the original article  : here.

Google opens new line to internet phone calls

SAN FRANCISCO – All the fuss about tweeting, texting, Facebook pokes and various other cutting-edge forms of communication can obscure the fact that old-fashioned telephone calls are still a pretty effective way of conveying information.

But the 560 million people who are registered users of internet phone pioneer Skype have never forgotten the value of talk, … Original article on : Google opens new line to internet phone calls.

Japan’s automakers report solid growth in global vehicle production for July

Japan automakers report solid production for July

TOKYO – Japanese automakers say they have posted solid growth in global vehicle production for July.
Toyota Motor Corp., the world’s biggest automaker, said Friday its worldwide production in July rose 10 percent year-on-year to 633,197 on brisk demand in Asia and South Africa.
Honda Motor Co. said global production in … Read more >>>.

More Chinese than Indians in Malaysia’s civil services

KUALA LUMPUR – Ethnic Indians in Malaysia hold just four percent of jobs in the civil services compared to six percent by Chinese who have doubled their presence since 2007.

The number of applications from Chinese Malaysians and their appointments in civil services rose by 100 percent last year compared to the figure in 2007, …. Original source  : More Chinese than Indians in Malaysia’s civil services.

Investors buy ING’s Canadian industrial properties for C$2 billion; ING sells majority stake

Investors pay C$2B for ING’s Canadian properties

AMSTERDAM – A pair of private equity investors will buy ING Summit Industrial Fund LP, a portfolio of light industrial properties in Canada, for 2 billion Canadian dollars, the Dutch bank ING Groep NV said Friday.
ING owns 50 percent of Summit outright, and 7.8 percent via an Australian fund …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Investors buy ING’s Canadian industrial properties for C$2 billion; ING sells majority stake.

New video gives fullest picture yet of conditions for 33 men trapped in Chilean mine

New video gives tour of trapped miners’ refuge

COPIAPO, Chile – The first video released of the 33 men trapped deep in a Chilean cooper mine shows the men stripped to the waist and appearing slim but healthy, arm-in-arm, singing the national anthem and yelling “long live Chile, and long live the miners!”
Only about five minutes …. Read the original article  : New video gives fullest picture yet of conditions for 33 men trapped in Chilean mine.

4,000 trees in Patna zoo face the axe for airport safety

PATNA – Nature lovers are concerned over the Bihar government’s plans to cut or prune nearly 4,000 trees in the Patna zoo for airport safety, as they say it is the only green cover for the city’s two million people.

The zoo is formally known as the Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park and houses a variety …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 4,000 trees in Patna zoo face the axe for airport safety.

Asian stock waver as investors await Bernanke’s speech amid recovery worries

Asian stocks mixed ahead of Bernanke’s speech

SHANGHAI – Asian markets wavered Friday as investors fretful over the pace of economic recovery awaited a speech later in the day by Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke, and the latest data on the state of the U.S. economy.
Global markets have been rattled in recent weeks by signs that … Read more »».

Jaipur Metro to dig deep in pockets of common man

JAIPUR – The Rajasthan government is set to introduce new taxes and other revenue measures to raise money for the Jaipur Metro, part of whose network will be operational in 2013, an official said here Saturday.

The work on the first phase of the Jaipur Metro Rail Project (JMRC), which is estimated to cost Rs.12.50 … Read more »».

Homes by Wright, Neutra, Schindler languish on market, as downturn hits even famous homes

Architectural gems languish on Calif. home market

LOS ANGELES – The home sale slump has left some dwellings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and other architectural luminaries languishing on the Southern California market.
Marquee homes by Richard Neutra, Rudolph Schindler and others that once sold briskly to design aficionados for stratospheric prices are now selling at a … Read more >>>.

Chhattisgarh registers record growth rate

RAIPUR – Chhattisgarh registered the highest growth rate among all Indian states in the 2009-10 fiscal, a government statement here said Saturday.

“Chhattisgarh has left all other states behind and emerged as the top ranked state in fiscal year 2009-10 in terms of GDP (gross state domestic product) growth rate with 11.49 percent,” a state … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Chhattisgarh registers record growth rate.

Glenn Beck rally Saturday at Lincoln Memorial on anniversary of King’s ‘I Have a Dream’ speech

Glenn Beck calls for thousands at DC rally
WASHINGTON – Broadcaster Glenn Beck is calling on thousands to rally Saturday in the nation’s capital on the anniversary and at the same site of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech. Civil rights leaders are protesting the event.
Beck, a Fox …. Original article  : Glenn Beck rally Saturday at Lincoln Memorial on anniversary of King’s ‘I Have a Dream’ speech.

Catching up with private insurers, Medicare expands coverage to help smokers kick the habit

Medicare expands coverage to help smokers quit
WASHINGTON – Even though they’ve lived with the health warnings much of their lives and doubtless seen the ill effects on friends, relatives and even themselves, about 4.5 million older Americans continue to smoke.
Finally, Medicare is catching up to most private insurers by providing counseling for any … Read more >>.

Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen sues Google, Apple, nine others for web patent breach

LONDON – The co-founder of Microsoft, billionaire Paul Allen, has sued 11 major web-based companies, including Apple, Google, Facebook, Yahoo, YouTube and eBay, alleging that they infringed on internet patents he owns.

According to The Telegraph, AOL, Netflix, Office Depot, OfficeMax, and Staples are the other companies accused of violating four patents said to cover …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen sues Google, Apple, nine others for web patent breach.

Beck rally Saturday at Lincoln Memorial on anniversary of King’s ‘I Have a Dream’ speech

Beck calls for thousands at DC rally
WASHINGTON – Broadcaster Glenn Beck is calling on thousands to rally Saturday in the nation’s capital on the anniversary and at the same site of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech. Civil rights leaders are protesting the event.
Beck, a … Original source on Gaea Times at : Beck rally Saturday at Lincoln Memorial on anniversary of King’s ‘I Have a Dream’ speech.

Catching up to private insurance, Medicare expands coverage for counseling to quit smoking

Will grandma ever quit smoking?
WASHINGTON – Even though they’ve lived with the health warnings much of their lives and doubtless seen the ill effects on friends, relatives and even themselves, about 4.5 million older Americans continue to smoke.
Finally, Medicare is catching up to most private insurers by providing counseling …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Catching up to private insurance, Medicare expands coverage for counseling to quit smoking.

A new Cuba? Gov’t eases land laws in likely nod to golf; expands self-employment in farming

Cuba eases property laws, could open door to golf

HAVANA – Cuba has begun allowing foreign investors to lease government land for up to 99 years, a step toward a future that could be filled with golf courses ringed by luxury villas, beachfront timeshares and vacation homes for well-heeled tourists.
But while overseas developers are cheering, some … Original article on : A new Cuba? Gov’t eases land laws in likely nod to golf; expands self-employment in farming.

Bank Of America Online Banking Now Restored

NORTH CAROLINA (GaeaTimes.com)- One of the leading banks of the USA, Bank Of America faced the flak from the customers in various states as its online banking service became inaccessible yesterday for some time. As one can understand a lot of users across the USA have accounts in this bank and a majority of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Bank Of America Online Banking Now Restored.

Whither urban development? Bleak future stares at India’s cities (Comment)

A New Delhi newspaper reported last Thursday that local authorities received 117 complaints of waterlogging, five of falling trees and six of building collapses, in one of which a four-year-old boy was killed. A school bus carrying 35 children became so deeply “embedded” in a road that a crane had to be called in, but …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

JetBlue aircraft that blew out tires in hard landing at Calif. airport towed off runway

Jet that blew out tires in hard landing towed away

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The JetBlue aircraft that blew out four tires during a hard landing at a Northern California airport Thursday has been towed off the runway.
Crews were able to remove the disabled Airbus A320 from the Sacramento International Airport runway Friday afternoon after using giant … Read more »».

Embattled airline Mexicana to stop flying

MEXICO CITY – Mexicana, Mexico’s largest airline by passengers carried, will halt all flights Saturday, Transportation Minister Juan Molinar Horcasitas announced in Mexico City.

The action was announced after Tenedora K, an investor group that has acquired most of the embattled carrier’s shares, announced that it was still seeking additional investors. The newspaper El Universal quoted …. Source article  : Embattled airline Mexicana to stop flying.

Nigerian native Masai Ujiri returns to Denver to lead Nuggets; top priority: keeping Melo

Nuggets hire Ujiri as new GM, and priority is Melo

DENVER – The Denver Nuggets have hired a man with global basketball experience to manage a team that’s in a world of hurt: two big men sidelined, a player under police investigation and its superstar’s signature missing from a contract extension.
Former Nuggets international scout Masai Ujiri, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Nigerian native Masai Ujiri returns to Denver to lead Nuggets; top priority: keeping Melo.

Architectural gems languish on Calif. housing market, as downturn hits storied structures

Marquee homes languish on Calif. housing market

LOS ANGELES – Southern California’s home-sale listings are beginning to resemble an index to the country’s most famous mid-20th-century architects, with more marquee properties languishing on the market as the well-heeled become increasingly reluctant to buy.
Homes by the likes of Frank Lloyd Wright, Richard Neutra and Rudolph Schindler that … Original article on : Architectural gems languish on Calif. housing market, as downturn hits storied structures.

Product recalls: cheese products, shell eggs

Product recalls: cheese products, shell eggs

The following recall has been announced:
-Queseria Chipilo of Passaic, N.J., is recalling certain packages of cheese products because they may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. The organism can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and in others with weakened immune systems. The company …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Product recalls: cheese products, shell eggs.

Alaska Democratic gubernatorial nominee unveils plan for individuals to invest in gas pipeline

Candidate says Alaskans should invest in gas line
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – The state’s Democratic nominee for governor said Friday he wants to give residents the chance to invest in a proposed pipeline that could ship natural gas to Lower 48 states.
Ethan Berkowitz said he wants to create “Great Alaska Pipeline Inc.,” a private-public partnership …. Original article  : Alaska Democratic gubernatorial nominee unveils plan for individuals to invest in gas pipeline.

Chemical fumes affect 100 at MGM Grand pool in Las Vegas; at least 26 taken to 5 hospitals

100 affected by fumes at MGM Grand pool in Vegas

LAS VEGAS – High concentrations of a chemical similar to bleach seeped into a pool at the MGM Grand on the Las Vegas Strip on Friday, causing hotel officials to evacuate some 1,500 guests and sending at least 26 people to local hospitals with breathing problems.
Richard …. Source  : Chemical fumes affect 100 at MGM Grand pool in Las Vegas; at least 26 taken to 5 hospitals.

Deputy commissioner confirms new Kovalchuk deal submitted to NHL

NHL says Devils submit new Kovalchuk contract

NEW YORK – NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly says the New Jersey Devils have submitted a new contract to the league for Russian star Ilya Kovalchuk.
The league has five days to approve or reject the deal, which media reports say amounts to $100 million over 15 years. A month …. Source article  : Deputy commissioner confirms new Kovalchuk deal submitted to NHL.

Democrats file complaint with IRS, accuse conservative group of tax code violations

Democrats file IRS complaint against outside group
WASHINGTON – The Democratic Party has filed a complaint with the Internal Revenue Service complaining that a conservative foundation spending millions of dollars on ads in election battleground states is violating its status as a tax-exempt organization.
The Democratic Congressional Campaign committee filed the complaint this week, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Democrats file complaint with IRS, accuse conservative group of tax code violations.

Glenn Beck’s rally suggests trouble for Dems if activists vote in November elections

Beck rally signals election trouble for Dems

WASHINGTON – If Democrats had doubts about the voter unrest that threatens to rob them of their majority in Congress, they needed only look from the Capitol this weekend to the opposite end of the National Mall.
It’s where Ken Ratliff joined tens of thousands of other anti-government activists at … Read more : Glenn Beck’s rally suggests trouble for Dems if activists vote in November elections.

Toyota’s second production unit in India to be ready by Dec

NEW DELHI – Toyota, the world’s largest car maker, is set to double its production capacity in India as its new plant in Bangalore, with an investment of nearly $680 million, will be operational by the end of this year.

“The new plant will have an annual production capacity of 70,000 units. It will double …. Read the original article  : Toyota’s second production unit in India to be ready by Dec.

Battle ahead for government in allowing foreign retailers

NEW DELHI – Foreign investment in multi-brand retail may snowball into another tussle between the Indian government and the opposition in the next few weeks, leaving for Prime Minister Manmohan Singh a nifty balancing act to reconcile the vast differences between the supporters and opponents of the move.

A perusal of the feedback the department of …. Original article  : Battle ahead for government in allowing foreign retailers.

Former AP reporter Jules Loh, who covered the odd, offbeat and momentous for AP, dies at 79

Former AP reporter, features writer Jules Loh dies

NEW YORK – Jules Edward Loh, an Associated Press reporter who covered the civil rights movement, the space program and other momentous stories before carving out a second career roaming the United States in search of the offbeat and the extraordinary, has died. He was 79.
Loh died early …. Original source  : Former AP reporter Jules Loh, who covered the odd, offbeat and momentous for AP, dies at 79.

China’s Wen says Japanese companies’ wages too low, after Japan calls for better labor laws

China’s Wen says Japanese companies’ wages too low

BEIJING – Premier Wen Jiabao told a visiting Japanese delegation Sunday that Japanese companies operating in China should address workers’ unhappiness over low wages that he says led to labor disputes this year.
Wen’s comment comes after Japanese Foreign Miniter Katsuya Okada called for “transparent policies” governing workers in … Read : China’s Wen says Japanese companies’ wages too low, after Japan calls for better labor laws.

Srinagar airport to shut down for 12 days

SRINAGAR – The Srinagar international airport will remain closed Sep 1-12 due to runway repairs and no airlines would operate their flights to and from the airport during this period, airport sources said.

The repairs to the runway are being carried out by the Indian Air Force.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had told …. Read the original article  : Srinagar airport to shut down for 12 days.

Kerala to have five more TV channels

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Five new channels will beam into Kerala homes soon, providing viewers more choices but crowding the television business in the state.

Currently, there are nine TV channels broadcasting in the state. Of these, Asianet, India Vision, People (Kairali) and Malayala Manorama are news channels.
The Indian Union Muslim League, an ally of the Congress- …. Source article  : Kerala to have five more TV channels.

Booming Asia assesses prospects amid abrupt slowdown in global economic recovery

Asia assesses prospects as world recovery stumbles

SEOUL, South Korea – Talk of the global economic recovery fizzling doesn’t faze Cho Byung-cheol, president of a small South Korean technology company that has already set up a branch in China and plans one soon in the United States.
The company, which designs and makes semiconductor-based high-speed data storage … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Booming Asia assesses prospects amid abrupt slowdown in global economic recovery.

Ravens WR Stallworth breaks foot in preseason game, will miss 8 weeks

Ravens WR Stallworth breaks foot, out for 8 weeks

BALTIMORE – Ravens wide receiver Donte’ Stallworth broke his foot in Saturday night’s game against the New York Giants and will probably be sidelined for two months.
It is unclear when the injury occurred, but it likely occurred during one of Stallworth’s three punt returns. He saw limited … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Ravens WR Stallworth breaks foot in preseason game, will miss 8 weeks.

‘Give better wages and social security to contract labour’

NEW DELHI – The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has said there is a need to engage multi-stakeholders and to bring in social security and flexibility in the contract labour segment for healthy industrial growth.

Arun Maira, member of the Planning Commission, said at a conference organised by CII on the contract labour issue here Saturday: … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘Give better wages and social security to contract labour’.

Caroline Wozniacki wins in New Haven for 3rd straight year, Stakhovsky takes men’s title

Wozniacki, Stakhovsky win tuneup to US Open

NEW HAVEN, Conn. – U.S. Open top seed Caroline Wozniacki won her third consecutive Pilot Pen tennis title Saturday, beating Russian Nadia Petrova 6-3, 3-6, 6-3.
The victory capped a good week for the 20-year-old Danish star, who won in Montreal on Monday.
In the men’s draw, Ukrainian Sergiy Stakhovsky won … Read more >>>.

Afleet Express holds off Fly Down to win Travers by a nose

Afleet Express wins Travers in photo finish

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. – Afleet Express was making his bid, coming off the far turn, moving away from the rail and gaining the lead from Miner’s Reserve just past the eighth pole in Saturday’s $1 million Travers Stakes at Saratoga Race Course.
The “Midsummer Derby” was far from over. Fly …. Read the original article  : Afleet Express holds off Fly Down to win Travers by a nose.

President Obama and family wrap up a vacation that _ for once _ was mostly uninterrupted

For Obamas, a (mostly) uninterrupted vacation
EDGARTOWN, Mass. – President Barack Obama wrapped up a 10-day vacation Saturday that was blissfully free of the news emergencies that have interrupted some of his past getaways.
Grim economic reports cast an inescapable shadow over the first family’s stay in Martha’s Vineyard, and tough tasks on … Original article on : President Obama and family wrap up a vacation that _ for once _ was mostly uninterrupted.

Inter-ministerial meeting to discuss cotton exports

CHENNAI – The commerce ministry has called an meeting of officials of the agriculture, commerce and textiles ministries Sep 1 to discuss cotton exports, an official said Saturday.

“The meeting has been called to fix the export quota of cotton after deciding on the domestic demand and the production,” Commerce Secretary Rahul Khullar told reporters …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Inter-ministerial meeting to discuss cotton exports.

New land bill to prevent forcible acquisition for industries

KOLKATA – Railway Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee Saturday said the proposed Land Acquisition Bill will ensure that land is not acquired forcibly for industry.

She also slammed the West Bengal government for its failure to provide 100 days of work for the poor people.
“We have shown the way through Singur and Nandigram …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : New land bill to prevent forcible acquisition for industries.

The people left behind: As American military bases close, Iraqis wonder about jobs

As US military bases close, Iraqis left behind

AL-FARIS, Iraq – Just about every man from the village of al-Faris has worked at the nearby Taji military base. The American money and influence is seen in the new cars, the additions to houses, even the billiards hall with a guitar from an American soldier.
But now, as … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : The people left behind: As American military bases close, Iraqis wonder about jobs.

Younger activists help older generation change tactics to fight new nuclear power push

Older activists, younger crowd team to fight nukes
DES MOINES, Iowa – Anti-nuke protesters of years past are joining forces with a younger generation as the battle over nuclear power appears to be starting again.
President Barack Obama has backed billions in federal loan guarantees to build two nuclear reactors in Georgia. Political support for …. Read the original article  : Younger activists help older generation change tactics to fight new nuclear power push.

Giant jury verdict shakes up nursing home industry, spotlights staffing levels

Huge verdict shakes up nursing home industry

SAN FRANCISCO – During Cindy Cool’s almost daily visits to the nursing home, she would routinely find her Alzheimer’s-suffering father wearing urine-soaked clothes.
The Blue Lake, Calif. resident said it would take upwards of 20 minutes for the apparently short-handed staff of Eureka Healthcare and Rehabilitation to respond and help …. Original source  : Giant jury verdict shakes up nursing home industry, spotlights staffing levels.

3Par calls HP’s $30-per-share bid ’superior’; Dell mulls increased offer

3Par calls HP $30 bid ’superior’; Dell mulls reply

FREMONT, Calif. – Data storage company 3Par Inc. says its board has determined that Hewlett-Packard Co.’s $2 billion, $30-per-share takeover bid is superior to a rival offer from Dell Inc.
The company said late Friday that it told Dell of its intention to terminate its previous deal for … Original source on Gaea Times at : 3Par calls HP’s $30-per-share bid ’superior’; Dell mulls increased offer.

Cash-strapped state parks eye corporate sponsorships; NH hooks up with outdoor apparel company

State parks explore corporate sponsorship
CONCORD, N.H. – New Hampshire’s state park system is among several around the country reaching out to private companies for sponsorships of park facilities, programs or the systems as a whole.

Maine, Virginia and Georgia are among other states that either have or are looking into some kind of sponsorship to support … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Cash-strapped state parks eye corporate sponsorships; NH hooks up with outdoor apparel company.