Hurricane Igor Hits Bermuda

HAMILTON (GaeaTimes.com)- Late on Sunday, the fierce Hurricane Igor struck the shores of Bermuda with a maximum sustained winds nearing round 120 kilometers per hour. Although through the week, Hurricane Igor slid from category 4 storm to Category one, on Sunday with U.S. based National Hurricane Center reporting the gust of wind to be … Read : Hurricane Igor Hits Bermuda.

From tense hunt to idyllic scene; 13 members of Calif. religious sect found praying in park

13 from Calif. sect found in park after tense hunt

PALMDALE, Calif. – Families of the missing fretted. Deputies fanned out across the high desert on horses and in helicopters. Neighbors marveled at the commotion of patrol cars and satellite trucks that appeared suddenly in their quiet streets.
The only people who seemed to take the disappearance … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : From tense hunt to idyllic scene; 13 members of Calif. religious sect found praying in park.

Train driver may be to blame for accident

BHOPAL – The driver of the goods train that smashed into a stationary passenger train in Madhya Pradesh Monday killing 15 people may have ignored a signal, a railway official said.

Piyush Mathur, chief public relations officer of Western Railway, told reporters: “It looks like the driver overshot the signal. The cause (of the accident) will … Original source on Gaea Times at : Train driver may be to blame for accident.

Malaysian tycoon to make movie with Hollywood stars

KUALA LUMPUR – A Malaysian tycoon, who was caught with narcotics at a pub here, has announced an action film starring big Hollywood names like Jamie Foxx and Bruce Willis.

Low Taek Jho was partying with a group of people when police raided the pub.
Twenty-six people, including six women and 14 underage customers, rounded up …. Source article  : Malaysian tycoon to make movie with Hollywood stars.

Rs.5 lakh for families of dead in train accident

NEW DELHI – Railways Minister Mamata Banerjee announced an ex-gratia of Rs.5 lakh each to the families of those killed in a railway accident in Madhya Pradesh early Monday.

A railway ministry statement also quoted her as saying that each of the grievously injured passenger would get Rs.1 lakh while those who suffered simple injuries would …. Original source  : Rs.5 lakh for families of dead in train accident.

Landslides, monsoon flooding kill 47 in northern India over the weekend, officials say

Landslides, monsoon floods kill 47 in north India

LUCKNOW, India – Heavy monsoon rains and landslides swept the hilly areas of northern India over the weekend, killing at least 47 people, officials said Monday.
Twenty-four people died Sunday as falling boulders crushed their homes in three villages in Almorah district in Uttrakhand state, said Prashant Kumar Tamta, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Landslides, monsoon flooding kill 47 in northern India over the weekend, officials say.

Jama Masjid attackers surveyed area; Taiwanese stable

NEW DELHI – The gunmen who opened fire outside Delhi’s Jama Masjid Sunday, injuring two foreigners, surveyed the area at least four times, police said Monday after speaking to witnesses.

Doctors at Delhi’s Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Hospital say the two Taiwanese tourists injured in the firing were now stable.
“Investigations are on,” a Delhi … Read : Jama Masjid attackers surveyed area; Taiwanese stable.

Flood threat again looms over Haryana

CHANDIGARH – The Yamuna continued to flow alarmingly high in Haryana Monday, posing a threat of heavy flooding in villages along the river, officials said. Fresh alerts have been issued in major districts like Karnal, Panipat and Faridabad.

According to government officials, nearly 700,000 cusecs of water was discharged into the Yamuna from the Hathnikund [..] Read the original article: here.

1984 riots: Supreme Court rejects Sajjan Kumar’s plea

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday rejected Congress leader Sajjan Kumar’s appeal seeking the quashing of the framing of charges against him in a case related to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

The apex court bench of Justices P. Sathasivam and Anil R. Dave, however, said the trial court would remain uninfluenced by the adverse observation … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 1984 riots: Supreme Court rejects Sajjan Kumar’s plea.

Japan urges China to remain calm after Beijing cuts high-level contacts over detained captain

Japan urges calm after China severs contacts

BEIJING – Japan urged China to remain calm and not inflame their diplomatic spat further Monday after Beijing severed high-level contacts over the detention of a Chinese fishing boat captain near disputed islands.
China’s rare move late Sunday pushed already-tense relations to a new low, and showed Beijing’s willingness to … Read : Japan urges China to remain calm after Beijing cuts high-level contacts over detained captain.

Utah blaze sparked at firing range burns 300 acres, 2 homes SW of Salt Lake City

Utah blaze sparked at firing range burns 2 homes

HERRIMAN, Utah – A Utah blaze sparked at a machine gun firing range prompted some 1,260 evacuations Sunday as flames spread across hundreds of acres southwest and burned two homes, fire officials said.
With the fast-moving wildfire moving in on the town of Herriman, Mayor Josh Mills signed …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Utah blaze sparked at firing range burns 300 acres, 2 homes SW of Salt Lake City.

Freight train slams into passenger train in central India, killing 10, injuring 50

Train crash kills 10 in central India, injures 50

NEW DELHI – A freight train on the wrong track slammed into a stopped passenger locomotive at a railway station amid heavy rain early Monday in central India, killing at least 10 people and injuring 50, officials said.
The death toll could rise as the debris is cleared, …. Read the original article  : Freight train slams into passenger train in central India, killing 10, injuring 50.

Extensive searches in Agra after Delhi incident

AGRA – Extensive searches were carried out at malls, railway stations, bus stands and around historical monuments in Uttar Pradesh’s Agra district following the shooting incident in Delhi, police here said Monday.

The Agra police led by Deputy Inspector General Dev Kumar Antony carried out the searches late Sunday.
A flag march was conducted in Mantola, … Read more »».

At least four killed, 52 injured in Madhya Pradesh collision (Third Lead)

BHOPAL – At least four people were killed and more than 50 injured early Monday when a goods train rammed into a stationary passenger train near Guna in Madhya Pradesh, railway officials said. Many passengers were still trapped in the mangled coaches of the Intercity Indore-Gwalior Express, reports added.

The accident took place around 5 a.m. …. Original article  : At least four killed, 52 injured in Madhya Pradesh collision (Third Lead).

Goods train rams into passenger train in Madhya Pradesh (Second Lead)

BHOPAL – A goods train smashed into a stationary passenger train near Guna in Madhya Pradesh early Monday, railway officials said, giving out death tolls that varied from four to nearly 10.

The accident took place at the Badarbas railway station, about 50 km from Guna, where the intercity Indore-Gwalior Express was awaiting signal.
There … Original article on : Goods train rams into passenger train in Madhya Pradesh (Second Lead).

520 kg cocaine found near Panama Canal

Panama City, Sep 20 (IANS/EFE) Over 520 kg of cocaine was found inside an abandoned vehicle on the banks of the Panama Canal, officials said.

The vehicle was abandoned a short distance from the Bridge of the Americas, the National Police said Sunday.
The occupants apparently abandoned the vehicle when they spotted a police checkpoint on …. Original article  : 520 kg cocaine found near Panama Canal.

At least 23 soldiers killed in ambush in Tajikistan; officials blame Islamic militants

At least 23 soldiers killed in Tajikistan ambush

DUSHANBE, Tajikistan – At least 23 soldiers were killed in Tajikistan after a convoy was ambushed by heavily armed Islamic militants – a devastating blow that will shake this impoverished nation lying on Afghanistan’s poorly secured northern border.
The military convoy was heading for eastern Rasht district, an area …. Source  : At least 23 soldiers killed in ambush in Tajikistan; officials blame Islamic militants.

Madhya Pradesh train collision: helpline numbers

BHOPAL – The helpline numbers opened by the Western Railway following the Madhya Pradesh train collision early Monday:

Badarbas: 07495245233
Shivpuri: 07492234407
Guna: 07542253799
Ujjain: 0134-233045
…. Original article  : Madhya Pradesh train collision: helpline numbers.

Typhoon Fanapi hits China

BEIJING – Typhoon Fanapi hit China’s Fujian province Monday, uprooting trees, ripping off branches and knocking down billboards, but there has been no casualties, officials said.

Officials of the Fujian provincial flood control headquarters said Fanapi hit Gulei township in Zhangpu county at 7 a.m. and lashed coastal areas with winds of speed around 35 metres …. Source article  : Typhoon Fanapi hits China.

Two brothers drown during Mexico boat race

Mexico City, Sep 20 (IANS/EFE) Two brothers drowned during a boat race held to celebrate the bicentennial of Mexico’s independence, officials said.

The accident occurred during an aquatic marathon in the Atoyac river along Atoyac de Alvarez city, 473 km south of Mexico City, officials of the public safety secretariat of Guerrero state said Sunday.
Brothers … Original source on Gaea Times at : Two brothers drown during Mexico boat race.

Five held with spying gear in Mexico

Mexico City, Sep 21 (IANS/EFE) Five people have been arrested in Mexico for possessing spying equipment, including “software for doing spy work” that contain “databases with information on people in 30 states”, officials said.

The suspects, one of whom is a policeman, were arrested after they were found following a group of federal police officers in … Read more : Five held with spying gear in Mexico.

Two 80-year-olds die after being abandoned in van

Madrid, Sep 21 (IANS/EFE) Two 80-year-old wheelchair-bound men, suffering from dementia, died after they were abandoned inside a van on way to an old age centre near here, authorities said.

The driver of the van has been arrested and is accused of homicide due to negligence.
Relatives of the dead went to the Virgen del Consuelo …. Read the original article  : Two 80-year-olds die after being abandoned in van.

Chilean president chats with trapped miners

Santiago, Sep 21 (IANS/EFE) Chilean President Sebastian Pinera visited the mine in which 33 people have been trapped since Aug 5 and sent a message of hope in a video chat, amid the euphoria of Chile’s bicentennial celebrations.

The miners were trapped when a landslide caused a tunnel to collapse several hundred feet above them. They … Original article on : Chilean president chats with trapped miners.

Japan warns of fanning nationalism in dispute with China over detained fishing captain

Japan warns of fanning nationalism in China feud

TOKYO – Japan warned Tuesday against fanning “extreme nationalism” in a diplomatic standoff with China over the detention of a Chinese fishing captain after his boat collided with Japanese vessels near disputed islands.
Relations between the countries have been on a downward spiral since the captain was detained nearly … Read : Japan warns of fanning nationalism in dispute with China over detained fishing captain.

2 dead and millions of dollars in damage as Taiwan cleans up after powerful typhoon

Taiwan cleans up after powerful typhoon; 2 dead

TAIPEI, Taiwan – Residents waded through ankle-deep mud to clean up their homes Tuesday, after massive flooding spawned by a powerful typhoon killed two people in southern Taiwan, and caused tens of millions of dollars of damage.
Typhoon Fanapi made a direct hit on the island Sunday, dumping more …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 2 dead and millions of dollars in damage as Taiwan cleans up after powerful typhoon.

NATO says 9 service members from international coalition killed in helicopter crash

NATO says 9 service members killed in crash

KABUL, Afghanistan – NATO says nine service members with the international coalition in Afghanistan have died after their helicopter crashed in the volatile south.
Two other coalition troops, an Afghan National Army soldier and a U.S. civilian were injured in Tuesday’s crash and were transported to a military medical …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Hurricane Karl claimed 16 lives in Mexico

MEXICO CITY – Hurricane Karl claimed at least 16 lives last week in Mexico, according to Monday’s updated official death toll.

The state of Veracruz, worst-hit by the hurricane’s rain and flooding, suffered 12 of the country’s fatalities. Several people remain missing.
Mexican President Felipe Calderon toured storm-ravaged areas Monday in Veracruz and met with civil …. Source article  : Hurricane Karl claimed 16 lives in Mexico.

Forecasters: 14th tropical depression of the season forms in Atlantic, likely to strengthen

14th tropical depression forms in Atlantic

MIAMI – Forecasters say a tropical depression has formed in the Atlantic on the heels of two hurricanes and is likely to become the next named storm.
The National Hurricane Center said late Monday that the 14th depression of the season was more than 500 miles (805 kilometers) from the Cape … Read more »»».

Owners of Missouri group home where 11 died in 2006 fire answer federal fraud charges

Fraud trial held for owner of Mo. group home

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Prosecutors say the former owner of a Missouri group home where 11 people died in a fire was running the business from prison and after his release despite a federal ban on his involvement.
Robert DuPont and his wife LaVerne went on trial Monday on …. Original source  : Owners of Missouri group home where 11 died in 2006 fire answer federal fraud charges.

20 percent containment reported at wildfire outside Utah National Guard base near Salt Lake

20 percent containment in Utah Guard wildfire

HERRIMAN, Utah – Fire officials are reporting progress battling a wildfire that started on a Utah Army National Guard base and forced the evacuation of 1,600 nearby homes.
Fire spokeswoman Kim Osborn said Monday that firefighters have 20 percent containment of the fire that destroyed three homes and damaged a … Read more »».

Gulf fund czar: No pay earned for spill cleanup to be subtracted from lost revenue claims

BP fund czar: No deduction for spill cleanup wages

NEW ORLEANS – The administrator of the fund for victims of the Gulf of Mexico oil disaster says he will waive a requirement that BP PLC wages earned by spill cleanup be subtracted from workers’ claims for lost revenue.
Attorney Kenneth Feinberg, who is doling out the $20 …. Source article  : Gulf fund czar: No pay earned for spill cleanup to be subtracted from lost revenue claims.

Consumer groups: Vehicles like church van that crashed in NY, killing 6, inherently unstable

Consumer groups: Type of van in NY crash unstable

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. – A church van that rolled over on the New York State Thruway and killed six people is a type some consumer groups have been calling unsafe for nearly a decade.
Two groups said Monday in response to a question from The Associated Press that …. Read the original article  : Consumer groups: Vehicles like church van that crashed in NY, killing 6, inherently unstable.

Guard commander takes responsibility for wildfire that raged out of control near Salt Lake

Guard commander takes responsibility for wildfire

HERRIMAN, Utah – The commander of the Utah Army National Guard took responsibility Monday for a fast-moving wildfire that led to the evacuation of 1,600 homes, saying Guard officials erred when they allowed live-fire training despite high wind warnings.
Gen. Brian Tarbet said he was “deeply sorry” about what he called …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Small plane carrying Americans crashes in Bahamas after luggage door opens in air; no one hurt

Bahamas probes small plane crash, no injuries

NASSAU, Bahamas – An aviation official in the Bahamas says a small plane heading for Florida with six people on board, including four Americans, crashed shortly after taking off. Everyone aboard escaped without injury.
Aviation safety inspector Delvin Major says the baggage door on the twin-engine Piper PA-31 flung open …. Original article  : Small plane carrying Americans crashes in Bahamas after luggage door opens in air; no one hurt.

BP joins ExxonMobil-led well containment program, to provide underwater equipment, expertise

BP to join oil companies’ well containment program

HOUSTON – BP PLC says it will join a group of the world’s largest oil companies who are working together to improve response to spills, such as the massive one in the Gulf of Mexico.
BP’s announcement on Monday came just two days after its blown-out Gulf well was … Read more »»».

Mexico’s death toll rises to 16 in mudslides, floods from remnants of Hurricane Karl

Death toll rises to 16 in Mexico from flooding

VERACRUZ, Mexico – Mexican authorities say at least 16 people have been killed in several days of flooding and mudslides across southern Mexico.
President Felipe Calderon says the death toll in the Gulf coast state of Veracruz rose to 12 over the weekend as the remnants of Hurricane …. Original source  : Mexico’s death toll rises to 16 in mudslides, floods from remnants of Hurricane Karl.

Earthquake strongly felt in Anchorage and beyond

Earthquake jolts Anchorage
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An earthquake jolted Anchorage on Monday and was felt well beyond Alaska’s largest city.

The 4.9 magnitude quake struck at 1:24 p.m. about 10 miles southwest of Anchorage, according to earthquake monitors.
There were no reports of injury or damage, but people reported that the earthquake “shook awful hard,” said Cindi Preller, …. Original article  : Earthquake strongly felt in Anchorage and beyond.

Metro-North Railroad Disrupted due to Fire on the Harlem river bridge

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — Metro-North railroad has been suspended on the Hudson, Harlem and New Heaven lines due to a fire on the 138th Street Bridge over the Harlem river.
The fire under the bridge was first reported at around 11.45 am today. Initial reports suggests that the fire has been caused by the explosion …. Original article  : Metro-North Railroad Disrupted due to Fire on the Harlem river bridge.

Weather delays Oregon wine grape harvest by 2 weeks to a month

Weather pushes back Oregon wine grape harvest

PORTLAND, Ore. – A cool spring followed by a summer with only a scattering of hot days has delayed the Oregon wine grape harvest by at least two weeks and possibly up to a month.
Growers are trying different ways to speed up ripening before fall rains arrive, including pulling … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Weather delays Oregon wine grape harvest by 2 weeks to a month.

Pipeline info kept secret for security reasons; Calif. town found that out after lethal blast

Despite accidents, pipeline info is elusive

SAN FRANCISCO – Public records can reveal a lot about a neighborhood: who’s not paying their taxes, where sex offenders live, whether a house for sale has lead paint. Yet if a 2??-foot-wide pipeline carrying highly pressurized, explosive natural gas runs beneath the neighborhood, it’s a different story.
Citing fears that …. Source  : Pipeline info kept secret for security reasons; Calif. town found that out after lethal blast.

Salt Lake-area wildfire 50 percent contained; crews hope to continue gaining ground

Crews hope to continue gaining ground on Utah fire

HERRIMAN, Utah – Firefighters looked to maintain their momentum Wednesday on a Utah wildfire ignited by Army National Guard members during weekend machine-gun training.
Nearly half the evacuation orders still in effect for the Salt Lake City suburb of Herriman were lifted Tuesday evening after fire officials reported …. Original source  : Salt Lake-area wildfire 50 percent contained; crews hope to continue gaining ground.

Man threatened to kill priest over church bells

Lucca (Italy), Sep 22 (IANS/AKI) A 63-year-old man in Italy has been booked for stalking after he repeatedly threatened to kill a priest for making “noise” with church bells.

The man reportedly became incensed by the sound of churches’ bells in the Tuscan city. He began telephoning the church to complain about the constant chimes and … Read more >>>.

Dominican kills men who stole his dog

Santo Domingo, Sep 22 (IANS/EFE) A resident of the eastern Dominican town of La Romana shot and killed two men who stole his dog and demanded money for the animal’s safe return, a media report said.

Frank Brauer, 46, was arrested for homicide after killing Francisco Reyes Nu??ez, 20, and Miguel Francisco Castilla, 31, El Nacional … Read : Dominican kills men who stole his dog.

Five dismembered bodies found in Mexico

Mexico City, Sep 22 (IANS/EFE) Five dismembered bodies were found on a highway near Tanhuato, a city in the western Mexican state of Michoacan, police said.

The trunks of the bodies were piled up on the road that leads to the Villanueva ranch and the heads and other body parts were packed in trash bags, a …. Original source  : Five dismembered bodies found in Mexico.

Finish duty early, British cops told

LONDON – Police officials on patrolling duty at a London borough were told to clock off an hour early to save money.

The Sun reported Wednesday that beat bobbies were called back to the base at 5 a.m. even though their shift finished at 6 a.m. by police inspectors.
This was done so that the …. Original source  : Finish duty early, British cops told.

Bank manager found dead at home

LUCKNOW – A 38-year-old manager of a bank was found dead under mysterious circumstances at his residence in Uttar Pradesh’s Kushinagar district, police said Wednesday.

Tej Bahadur Singh, manager of Punjab National Bank’s (PNB) branch in the Tamkuhi area in Kushinagar, was found dead late Tuesday inside his house in Sevrahi town, some 300 km from …. Source  : Bank manager found dead at home.

Prosecutors say they’ll seek death penalty for 2 in suburban Chicago fire that killed 7

Prosecutors to seek death for 2 in fatal Ill. fire

CHICAGO – Prosecutors plan to seek the death penalty for two men accused of killing seven people in a suburban Chicago apartment house they allegedly set on fire for the insurance money.
The Chicago Tribune reports that lawyers for 60-year-old building owner Lawrence Myers and 47-year-old building …. Original article  : Prosecutors say they’ll seek death penalty for 2 in suburban Chicago fire that killed 7.

Spanish priest suspended over abuse allegations

Valencia (Spain), Sep 22 (IANS/EFE) The Catholic hierarchy in this eastern Spanish city has suspended a priest accused of sexually abusing adolescents.

From the “very moment the facts were known”, the accused cleric had “all pastoral functions” taken away from him and “was asked to get out of the community he was serving”, the Archdiocese of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

The `secret’ blunder that sank the Titanic

LONDON – A steering blunder sank the Titanic on her maiden voyage as a helmsman panicked and turned the wrong way, says a new book that claims the error was kept secret for almost 100 years.

Daily Telegraph reported Wednesday that the new book revealed the ship’s crew spotted the iceberg well in advance but still … Original article on : The `secret’ blunder that sank the Titanic.

Some Salt Lake-area fire evacuees allowed to go home; blaze 50 percent contained

Some Salt Lake-area fire evacuees allowed home

HERRIMAN, Utah – Authorities say a Utah wildfire ignited by Army National Guard members during weekend machine-gun training is 50 percent contained, and some evacuation orders have been lifted.
Fire officials said Tuesday evening that residents of about 200 homes in the Salt Lake City suburb of Herriman are being … Read : Some Salt Lake-area fire evacuees allowed to go home; blaze 50 percent contained.

Massey chief accuses federal mine safety officials of lying in W.Va. mine blast investigation

Massey chief accuses feds of lying in W.Va. probe

BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – The embattled chief executive of Massey Energy accused federal regulators Tuesday of not making a genuine effort to investigate the explosion that killed 29 miners and injured two at the company’s Upper Big Branch mine in West Virginia.
Instead, the Mine Safety and Health Administration … Read more »».

Wildfire evacuation enters 3rd night for more than 450 homes in parts of Salt Lake suburb

Salt Lake-area fire evacuees to be out 3rd night

HERRIMAN, Utah – Police in Utah told hundreds of families Tuesday they would be kept out their homes for a third night while firefighters and the Army National Guard battled a wildfire ignited by guard members during weekend machine-gun training.
With the 6-square-mile fire just 25 percent contained …. Original article  : Wildfire evacuation enters 3rd night for more than 450 homes in parts of Salt Lake suburb.

Flooding and landslides from typhoon kill 13 in China, dozens still missing

Typhoon flooding kills 13 in China, dozens missing

BEIJING – An official in southern China says flooding and landslides from Typhoon Fanapi have killed 13 people and left at least 33 missing.
The typhoon hit Guangdong province after making a direct hit on the island of Taiwan on Sunday and killing two there.
China’s national meteorological center says …. Source  : Flooding and landslides from typhoon kill 13 in China, dozens still missing.

Bleaching of Caribbean corals could surpass record loss of color set in 2005, experts say

Experts: Caribbean corals could face record bleach

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Caribbean corals are being exposed to water temperatures higher than those reported during a record bleaching period five years ago and could start dying in the coming weeks, scientists said Tuesday.
The warning comes after islands entered the warmest month of the year for water … Original source on Gaea Times at : Bleaching of Caribbean corals could surpass record loss of color set in 2005, experts say.

Bridge collapse, construction woes, disease fears put New Delhi’s Commonwealth Games at risk

Commonwealth Games at risk with under 2 weeks left

NEW DELHI – Less than two weeks before it begins, one of the world’s biggest sports events is in jeopardy as organizers struggle to cope with unfinished buildings, a filthy athletes’ village called “unfit for human habitation,” a bridge collapse, concerns over security and corruption, and an … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Bridge collapse, construction woes, disease fears put New Delhi’s Commonwealth Games at risk.

Conn. committee recommends banning ‘gas blows’ at plants, more training for inspectors

Conn. committee seeks to ban ‘gas blows’ at plants

HARTFORD, Conn. – A state commission on Tuesday recommended that “gas blows,” the process blamed for a deadly power plant explosion in Middletown, be banned in Connecticut until new national standards are put in place.
A panel created by Gov. M. Jodi Rell approved seven recommendations it will … Read : Conn. committee recommends banning ‘gas blows’ at plants, more training for inspectors.

Mine safety agency chief announces emergency coal dust rule in response to W.Va. explosion

Mine safety agency has new rule after W.Va. blast

BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – The federal government is implementing an emergency rule that will require underground mines to do more to control explosive coal dust following an explosion in West Virginia in April.
Mine Safety and Health Administration director Joe Main announced the change at an industry conference Tuesday. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Mine safety agency chief announces emergency coal dust rule in response to W.Va. explosion.

9 NATO troops die in chopper crash in southern Afghanistan; no reports of enemy fire

Afghanistan helicopter crash kills 9 NATO troops

KABUL, Afghanistan – A helicopter carrying international troops crashed in a rugged section of southern Afghanistan, killing nine service members in the deadliest such incident in four years for coalition forces.
A “large number” of Americans were among the dead, according to a senior military official in Washington, who spoke … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 9 NATO troops die in chopper crash in southern Afghanistan; no reports of enemy fire.

Corpus Christi police recover body of missing driver as rain along Texas coast finally eases

Body of Texas man recovered as rain finally eases

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – Storms partly fueled by Hurricane Karl finally began weakening along the Texas coast on Tuesday after dumping more than 10 inches of rain, and authorities found the body of driver who had been swept away by floods.
Widespread flooding closed schools and forced families … Original source on Gaea Times at : Corpus Christi police recover body of missing driver as rain along Texas coast finally eases.

Optimism grows in Chile as drills advance and capsule is prepared for October miner rescue

Chileans optimistic for early October miner rescue

SANTIAGO, Chile – Chilean rescuers are growing increasingly optimistic about pulling the 33 trapped miners out far sooner than originally estimated, and with drilling quickly advancing on three narrow escape chutes, they raced Tuesday to decide on a design for the capsule that will lift the men to safety.
President …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Optimism grows in Chile as drills advance and capsule is prepared for October miner rescue.

Conn. governor’s order bans gas blow pipe cleaning procedure at power plants after fatal blast

Conn. gov bans gas blow pipe cleaning procedure

HARTFORD, Conn. – Connecticut Gov. M. Jodi Rell has signed an executive order banning state power plants from conducting the type of pipe cleaning procedure blamed for a fatal explosion in February.
Rell issued the order against gas blows Wednesday, a day after announcing it at the recommendation of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Conn. governor’s order bans gas blow pipe cleaning procedure at power plants after fatal blast.

Drill mishap delays Chilean mine rescue

Santiago, Sep 23 (IANS/EFE) A drill being used to reach 33 men trapped for almost seven weeks inside a mine in northern Chile broke off and fell to the bottom of the shaft, although no workers were injured, authorities said Wednesday.

Engineer Andre Sougarret, who is in charge of the rescue operation, told reporters that Wednesday … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Drill mishap delays Chilean mine rescue.

Yamuna recedes but still flowing above danger mark

NEW DELHI – The water of the Yamuna river here receded Thursday morning but the river is still flowing over two metres above the danger mark, a flood department official said.

According to the official of the irrigation and flood control department, the water level in the Yamuna, which touched 207.08 metres Wednesday night, receded to … Read more >>.

Pentagon IDs 9 American troops killed in Afghanistan helicopter crash

US IDs 9 Americans killed in Afghanistan crash

WASHINGTON – The Defense Department has identified the nine American troops killed in the worst coalition helicopter crash in Afghanistan in four years.
The military announced Wednesday that four sailors were killed in the crash during combat operations a day earlier, along with five soldiers. Three of the sailors …. Original article  : Pentagon IDs 9 American troops killed in Afghanistan helicopter crash.

Utah HP: Driver smoked pot heavily days before fatal crash and fell asleep at the wheel

Patrol: Tour driver smoked pot days before crash

SALT LAKE CITY – A tour bus driver smoked marijuana heavily for several days before falling asleep at the wheel and crashing in Utah, killing three Japanese tourists and injuring 11 other passengers, according to an arrest report released Wednesday.
Yasushi Mikuni, 26, was charged with 10 felony counts …. Read the original article  : Utah HP: Driver smoked pot heavily days before fatal crash and fell asleep at the wheel.

Pentagon says all 9 troops killed in helicopter crash in Afghanistan were Americans

US: Dead in Afghan chopper crash were all American

KABUL, Afghanistan – All nine troops killed in a helicopter crash earlier this week – the worst for the coalition forces in four years – were Americans, the Pentagon confirmed, although it refused to provide further information on why the aircraft went down.
NATO said there were no … Read more : Pentagon says all 9 troops killed in helicopter crash in Afghanistan were Americans.

Police: Man charged in 2007 Conn. home invasion says planned home robbery ‘got out of control’

Conn. home invasion break-in ‘got out of control’

NEW HAVEN, Conn. – A man charged in the 2007 home invasion killings of a woman and her two daughters was devoid of emotion as he told authorities how he sexually assaulted the mother after his co-defendant told him he had to – to “square things up” – … Original source on Gaea Times at : Police: Man charged in 2007 Conn. home invasion says planned home robbery ‘got out of control’.

US regulators approve ‘gradual’ restart of Mich. pipeline that spilled up to 1M gallons of oil

Regulators OK restart of Mich. oil pipeline

LANSING, Mich. – Federal regulators will allow Enbridge Inc. to gradually restart a repaired pipeline that spilled hundreds of thousands of gallons of oil into a southern Michigan waterway this summer.
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration said Wednesday that the gradual restart will be “tightly controlled and closely … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US regulators approve ‘gradual’ restart of Mich. pipeline that spilled up to 1M gallons of oil.

Flooding and landslides from typhoon kill 33 in China, dozens still missing

Typhoon flooding kills 33 in China, dozens missing

BEIJING – Flooding and landslides triggered by the strongest storm to hit China this year have killed 33 people and left at least 42 missing, state media said.
Typhoon Fanapi swamped south China’s Guangdong province after making a direct hit on the island of Taiwan on Sunday and killing … Original article on : Flooding and landslides from typhoon kill 33 in China, dozens still missing.

Man who thwarted Utah restaurant gunman is 1 of 19 honored with Carnegie Heroes Fund awards

Carnegie Heroes Fund honors 19 with medals, money

PITTSBURGH – A Utah man who wrestled a gun away from an escaped inmate at a fast food restaurant and three people who drowned in rescue attempts are among 19 winners of the Carnegie medals for heroism.
Eric L. Fullerton of Salt Lake City rescued an Arby’s worker who … Original article on : Man who thwarted Utah restaurant gunman is 1 of 19 honored with Carnegie Heroes Fund awards.

US regulators OK plan for ‘gradual’ restart of pipeline that spilled oil in Mich. this summer

Regulators OK restart plan for Michigan pipeline

LANSING, Mich. – Federal regulators have approved a plan that allow Enbridge Inc. to gradually restart a repaired pipeline that spilled at least 820,000 gallons of oil into a southern Michigan waterway this summer.
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration said Wednesday the gradual restart will be “tightly controlled …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : US regulators OK plan for ‘gradual’ restart of pipeline that spilled oil in Mich. this summer.

South African provincial premier’s residence burgled

JOHANNESBURG – The official residence of premier of Gauteng province in South Africa has been burgled, authorities said Wednesday.

Several items, including a television set and clothes, were stolen when thieves gained access to the premises of Premier Nomvula Mokonyane Sep 6, Xinhua said.
A local media report said Wednesday that the premier’s residence … Read : South African provincial premier’s residence burgled.

Utah HP: Driver smoked pot ‘heavily’ days before, fell asleep at wheel in fatal tour crash

Patrol: Tour driver smoked pot heavily day before

SALT LAKE CITY – A tour bus driver smoked marijuana heavily for several days before falling asleep at the wheel and crashing in Utah, killing three Japanese tourists and injuring 11 other passengers, according to an arrest report released Wednesday.
Yasushi Mikuni, 26, was charged with 10 felony counts … Read : Utah HP: Driver smoked pot ‘heavily’ days before, fell asleep at wheel in fatal tour crash.

India’s Commonwealth Games woes raise concern about major sports events in developing nations

2 teams delay leaving for troubled games in India

NEW DELHI – The idea sounded good: Put international sports festivals like the Commonwealth Games in countries such as India to broaden the stage for international competitions and encourage economic development.
It had been done before, with the Olympics in China two years ago and with regional events …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Choosing a seat on a plane: To avoid fees or survive a crash, here’s where to sit

Choosing a seat on a plane: Not just about legroom

NEW YORK – Choosing a seat on an airplane isn’t just about legroom anymore. New “selection” fees and extra charges to sit in certain locations in the aircraft have complicated the process.
With airlines now charging for things that used to be baked into the ticket price …. Original source  : Choosing a seat on a plane: To avoid fees or survive a crash, here’s where to sit.

Neighbors hope for cease-fire at Utah base where wildfire began

Neighbors hope Camp Williams in Utah ceases firing

SALT LAKE CITY – The last evacuated residents were allowed home Wednesday, as some neighbors of Camp Williams said they want a cease-fire at the Utah National Guard base, where live ammunition sparked a wildfire that still burned four days later.
It destroyed three homes, significantly damaged a fourth … Original article on : Neighbors hope for cease-fire at Utah base where wildfire began.

Police: 2 Ohio real estate agents slain, 1 robbed within a week; other agents take precautions

2 Ohio real estate agents killed; another robbed

KENT, Ohio – Two real estate agents were killed in vacant homes for sale and another was robbed all within a week, prompting frightened agents in northeast Ohio to cancel open houses and avoid meeting prospective buyers alone.
Two brothers were arrested Tuesday in the Sept. 15 robbery of … Read more »»».

SC principal: 2nd student questioned in pipe bomb, shooting incident at high school

SC principal: 2nd student questioned in shooting

COLUMBIA, S.C. – A second student has been questioned about pipe bombs police say were found after a shooting at a South Carolina high school.
Socastee High School principal Paul Browning says police questioned a second student Wednesday about his knowledge of the event in northeastern South Carolina. Browning says …. Read the original article  : SC principal: 2nd student questioned in pipe bomb, shooting incident at high school.

Police: SC student fired gun at officer on campus, also planted pipe bombs at school

Police: SC student planted pipe bombs school

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Police say a South Carolina high school freshman shot at an on-campus officer and also planted several pipe bombs in the school.
Police in Horry County in the northeast part of the state say the student confronted school resource officer Erik Karney with a gun Tuesday. The … Read more : Police: SC student fired gun at officer on campus, also planted pipe bombs at school.

Salt Lake City-area wildfire 50 percent contained; rain, hail, lightning interrupt effort

Rain, hail, lightning interrupt Utah firefight

SALT LAKE CITY – Rain, hail and lightning have suspended the fight against a Utah wildfire ignited by Army National Guard members during weekend machine-gun training.
Fire spokesman Marshall Thompson said Wednesday’s storm isn’t expected to extinguish the 6-square-mile blaze that burned three homes and damaged a fourth in Herriman. But …. Original article  : Salt Lake City-area wildfire 50 percent contained; rain, hail, lightning interrupt effort.

Police stations strength depleted for Games

NEW DELHI – Police stations in the capital will have fewer men during the Commonwealth Games — because 40 percent of the staff will be assigned to guard the athletes and Games venues.

“With just nine days left for the Games, we need additional security. So personnel will be deployed from each police station, particularly at …. Original source  : Police stations strength depleted for Games.

Enbridge to restart oil pipeline early next week, nearly 2 months after large Mich. spill

Enbridge to restart oil pipeline after Mich. spill

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. – Oil is expected to resume flowing early next week through an underground pipeline that ruptured nearly two months ago and spilled at least 820,000 gallons of crude oil into a southern Michigan waterway, the pipeline owner said Thursday.
Enbridge Inc. CEO Patrick Daniel said the …. Source  : Enbridge to restart oil pipeline early next week, nearly 2 months after large Mich. spill.

Low-IQ woman executed through injection in the US

WASHINGTON – The state of Virginia in the US Thursday executed its first woman in nearly a century for the murder of her husband and step-son in a plot concocted to reap their life insurance money, state officials said.

The execution of Teresa Lewis, 41, drew protests in particular because of her low IQ of 72, [..] Read the original article: here.

Prosecutors: Japan to release Chinese captain held in boat collision that caused major dispute

Japan to release Chinese boat captain amid tension

TOKYO – Japanese prosecutors said Friday they will release the captain of a Chinese fishing vessel involved in a collision near disputed islands.
The incident had raised tensions with China, which has angrily demanded Tokyo release the captain, and cut off ministerial-level talks with Japan.
Prosecutors on Ishigaki island in [..] Read the original article: here.

Yamuna water rising, flood situation grim in Agra

AGRA – With the water level of the river Yamuna rising ominously, the flood situation Friday here was described as grim by the district authorities who were shifting people along the banks to safer areas.

The Yamuna was flowing almost two feet above the 495-foot danger mark Friday, having touched 496.2 feet Thursday.
With more water …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Iraqi police say bomb attached to family car kills 4 children in Baghdad

Iraqi police say blast kills 4 children in Baghdad

BAGHDAD – A bomb attached to the car of a government worker exploded Thursday with his family and relatives inside, killing four children, officials said.
The blast is the latest violence in the capital, which has seen isolated strikes and major car bombings in recent weeks, including attacks …. Original source  : Iraqi police say bomb attached to family car kills 4 children in Baghdad.

Federal prosecutors say 2006 Salt Lake City library blast was Illinois man’s revenge

Prosecutors call 2006 Utah library blast revenge

SALT LAKE CITY – An Illinois man on trial in the bombing of a downtown Salt Lake City library was seeking revenge for the arrest of his son on a driving under the influence charge, federal prospectors claimed Thursday.
Thomas Zajac, 57, faces a six-count indictment for the Sept. 15, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Federal prosecutors say 2006 Salt Lake City library blast was Illinois man’s revenge.

Driver facing felony charges in Utah tour bus crash released on $50,000 bail

Driver in Utah tour bus crash released on bail

SALT LAKE CITY – Authorities say a driver facing felony charges in a deadly tour bus crash in southern Utah has been freed from jail pending a court appearance.
Jail officials and court records in Cedar City say 26-year-old Yasushi Mikuni (YA’-shu-see Mick-CUE’-nee) was released on a $50,000 … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Driver facing felony charges in Utah tour bus crash released on $50,000 bail.

Natural gas prices rise as traders watch for storm threat to Gulf of Mexico production

Natural gas up on storm threat to production

Natural gas prices edged higher Thursday as traders kept an eye on a potential tropical storm that could disrupt Gulf of Mexico production.
In addition, natural gas inventories rose less than expected last week and electricity demand increased from year-ago levels, which helped to push up prices. Natural gas … Read more >>>.

NTSB’s Hersman tells Congress that Metro has improved safety in year following June 2009 crash

NTSB head: Metro system safer after June ‘09 crash

WASHINGTON – The head of the National Transportation Safety Board says that Washington’s Metrorail system is significantly safer now than it was last year when a train crash killed nine people and injured dozens of others.
In July, the NTSB’s Deborah Hersman issued a scathing report criticizing an … Read : NTSB’s Hersman tells Congress that Metro has improved safety in year following June 2009 crash.

Forecasters say tropical storm warning issued for parts of Nicaragua, Honduras Caribbean coast

Tropical depression heads for Nicaragua, Honduras

MIAMI – A tropical storm warning and hurricane watch are issued for parts of Nicaragua and Honduras ahead of a tropical depression that could strengthen over the Caribbean.
The U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami said the governments of Nicaragua and Honduras issued the alerts for the stretch from Puerto Cabezas, …. Read the original article  : Forecasters say tropical storm warning issued for parts of Nicaragua, Honduras Caribbean coast.

Defense official says Army officer in charge of brain injury care reassigned amid allegations

DOD says brain injury office chief is reassigned

WASHINGTON – The Army officer in charge of overseeing treatment for troops suffering from brain injuries and psychological trauma has been reassigned until an internal investigation into his management of the office is completed, a senior Pentagon official said Thursday.
Col. Robert Saum is being replaced as acting director …. Source article  : Defense official says Army officer in charge of brain injury care reassigned amid allegations.

Tropical storm Matthew forms in Caribbean as Lisa regains tropical storm far out in Atlantic

Tropical storm Matthew forms in Caribbean
MIAMI – The National Hurricane Center says tropical storm Matthew has formed in the southwestern Caribbean.

Forecasters at the Miami center said at 5 p.m. EDT Thursday that Matthew has maximum sustained winds of 40 mph and was moving westward at 16 mph. The center says Matthew was located 435 miles … Original source on Gaea Times at : Tropical storm Matthew forms in Caribbean as Lisa regains tropical storm far out in Atlantic.

Raid in Fallujah brings messy aftermath for Iraqi and US forces

Fallujah raid highlights Iraq’s security concerns

BAGHDAD – For a few hours last week, a part of Fallujah was a flashback to the depths of the Iraq war when insurgents ruled the city and its streets were shooting galleries.
During an afternoon raid, gunmen exchanged fire with American and Iraqi commandos. Panicked civilians ran for cover or …. Read the original article  : Raid in Fallujah brings messy aftermath for Iraqi and US forces.

Pair to appear in court in Ohio real estate agent robbery; 2 other agents’ killings are probed

2 to be arraigned in Ohio realty agent robbery

CLEVELAND – Two brothers accused of robbing an Ohio real estate agent who was showing them an apartment building are scheduled to appear in court as authorities look for clues in the killings of two other agents.
Paul Brooks, who’s 27, and 25-year-old Robert Brooks are in jail … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pair to appear in court in Ohio real estate agent robbery; 2 other agents’ killings are probed.

Calif. regulators approve independent panel to probe San Bruno blast, Pacific Gas & Electric

Calif regulators approve panel to probe blast

FRESNO, Calif. – California regulators voted Thursday to establish a high-level, independent panel to investigate the San Bruno gas line explosion that killed seven people and torched dozens of homes in the hills overlooking San Francisco Bay.
The resolution adopted 4-0 by the California Public Utilities Commission also called for … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Calif. regulators approve independent panel to probe San Bruno blast, Pacific Gas & Electric.

Controller questioned cargo pilot’s turn in near-collision of 2 planes over Minneapolis

Tower questioned cargo pilot in Minn. near-miss

MINNEAPOLIS – An air traffic controller asked a cargo pilot why he didn’t make a turn as ordered in the moments before his plane’s near-collision with a US Airways jet over Minneapolis.
The National Transportation Safety Board said Thursday the planes came within 50 to 100 feet of each other …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Controller questioned cargo pilot’s turn in near-collision of 2 planes over Minneapolis.

NTSB investigating near-collision of US Airways jet, cargo plane over Minneapolis

NTSB investigating near-collision over Minneapolis

MINNEAPOLIS – Federal regulators say they’re investigating the near-collision of a US Airways jet and a small cargo plane over Minneapolis.
The National Transportation Safety Board says the planes came within 50 to 100 feet of crashing near Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport last week.
The NTSB says US Airways Flight 1848, an Airbus …. Original source  : NTSB investigating near-collision of US Airways jet, cargo plane over Minneapolis.

Colombia says No. 2 rebel commander killed in raid; major setback for insurgents

Colombia: No. 2 rebel commander killed in raid

BOGOTA, Colombia – Colombia’s military killed the No. 2 leader and top military strategist of the country’s main rebel army in blistering bombardments of a major jungle camp, officials announced Thursday, saying rebel informants helped prepare the demoralizing shock to an already weakened insurgency.
The death of Jorge Briceno, [..] Read the original article: here.

Prosecutor: Suspect in 3 DUI deaths cared only about himself while drinking on day of crash

Prosecutor: Man in DUI case drank beyond reason

SANTA ANA, Calif. – A man charged with murder in a drunken-driving collision that killed rookie Los Angeles Angels pitcher Nick Adenhart and two other people didn’t care about anyone but himself when he decided to drink that day and must accept responsibility for his actions, a prosecutor …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Two-year-old crushed under school bus

HYDERABAD – A two-year-old girl playing outside her house was crushed under a school bus here Saturday, police said.

The girl was playing in front of her residence in Attapur neighbourhood when she came under the rear wheels of the mini bus that was reversing.
Eye witnesses said the bus driver failed to spot the little …. Read the original article  : Two-year-old crushed under school bus.

Fire officials declare suburban Utah fire that was sparked by National Guard base contained

Utah fire sparked by National Guard base contained

SALT LAKE CITY – Fire officials have declared the wildfire that began burning in a Salt Lake City suburb on Sunday to be 100 percent contained.
Fire spokesman Jason Curry says word of the containment came as the last crew came down off the mountains just before 6 p.m. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Fire officials declare suburban Utah fire that was sparked by National Guard base contained.

Chile mining drama, week seven: Who will come out first?

SANTIAGO – The suspense over when and how the trapped Chilean miners will exit their underground cavern grew in the seventh week of their accidental prison as dribs and drabs of the plans leaked out.

Even as three drills kept boring rescue shafts into the Atacama Desert mine, where the collapse occurred Aug 5, officials started …. Original source  : Chile mining drama, week seven: Who will come out first?.

Tropical Storm Matthew drenches Central America; thousands evacuated amid flooding fears

Tropical Storm Matthew drenches Central America

TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras – Honduras and Nicaragua evacuated thousands of people from the path of Tropical Storm Matthew on Friday as it drenched disaster-prone areas along Central America’s Caribbean coast.
The U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami said Matthew could bring 6 to 10 inches (15 to 25 centimeters) of rain to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Tropical Storm Matthew drenches Central America; thousands evacuated amid flooding fears.

Cleanup of Calif. neighborhood devastated by gas pipeline blast to take 3-4 weeks

Cleanup in Calif. blast area to take 3-4 weeks

SAN BRUNO, Calif. – Officials say it will take three-to-four weeks to finish removing contaminated soil and other potentially toxic debris from the rubble-strewn lots of homes destroyed by a gas pipeline explosion in Northern California.
San Mateo County officials say they’ve received permission from the property owners …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

3 tonnes of cocaine seized in Panama

Panama City, Sep 25 (IANS/EFE) Panamanian security forces seized three tonnes of cocaine in the central province of Veraguas thanks to an intelligence tip from the Colombian military, police said Friday.

The drugs were confiscated Thursday after a chase at sea that began off the coast of Colon province and ended at the mouth of the … Original article on : 3 tonnes of cocaine seized in Panama.

Two killed after being hit by train

LUCKNOW – It was their hastiness to alight from the train before it stopped at a station that proved fatal. Two rail passengers were killed Saturday when they were hit by another train while alighting from a train in Uttar Pradesh’s Shahjahanpur district, officials said.

The accident took place near Shahjahanpur railway station when five passengers … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Two killed after being hit by train.

Shootout in Mexican city leaves 7 dead

Chilpancingo (Mexico), Sep 25 (IANS/EFE) Seven suspected cartel gunmen were killed in a shootout between rival gangs in the Pacific resort city of Acapulco, Mexican officials said.

Spokespersons for the Attorney General’s Office in Guerrero state, where Acapulco is located, said the clash occurred Thursday on the outskirts of that tourist hub.
According to the report, … Read : Shootout in Mexican city leaves 7 dead.

UNICEF rushes relief to flood-hit Indian states

UNITED NATIONS – The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is helping India in rushing relief supplies to millions of people uprooted from their homes in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Uttarakhand by heavy floods.

The agency has supplied tarpaulin sheets, jerry cans, water purification tablets and mosquito nets, among other items, to more than 8,000 displaced families … Read more »»».

5 killed as sudden storm blasts through Haitian capital, sending panic into tent cities

5 killed as storm blasts through Haiti tent camps

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – A freak storm blasted through Haiti’s capital on Friday, killing at least five earthquake survivors as it tore down trees, billboards and tent homes, authorities said.
Three adults and two children were killed in the tarp, tent and shack camps that still dominate Port-au-Prince more …. Original source  : 5 killed as sudden storm blasts through Haitian capital, sending panic into tent cities.

12 dead in Cuba bus accident

HAVANA – Twelve people died in a crash between a passenger bus and a freight truck in the town of Sagua la Grande, Cuban media reported Friday.

Another 36 people were injured in the accident.
Reports said the fully-loaded truck left its lane and crashed into the bus. Officials have begun an investigation, the news agency …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 12 dead in Cuba bus accident.

Blaze destroys 320 homes in Brazilian slum

Sao Paulo, Sep 25 (IANS/EFE) A fire that broke out early Friday in the slums of this Brazilian city destroyed 320 dwellings, authorities said.

No one was seriously injured in the blaze in the Real Parque shantytown area, the Sao Paulo municipal government said.
Several residents were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation, while a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Investigator testifies intense flames drove back firefighers at deadly Conn. home invasion

Witness: Home invasion flames drove back rescuers

NEW HAVEN, Conn. – A state investigator says the fire set during a 2007 Connecticut home invasion in which a woman and her two daughters died was so intense it burst through windows and skylights and drove back firefighters.
Fire marshal’s investigator Paul Makuc (MAY’-cook) testified Friday at the New … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Investigator testifies intense flames drove back firefighers at deadly Conn. home invasion.

Defense Department paying Utah homeowners’ claims from wildfire sparked by National Guard base

Pentagon paying Utah homeowners for fire losses

SALT LAKE CITY – The U.S. Department of Defense is paying homeowners for losses from a wildfire that started at a Utah Army National Guard base and swept into a Salt Lake City suburb, a military official said Friday.
The Defense Finance and Accounting Service set up shop at Herriman’s … Original source on Gaea Times at : Defense Department paying Utah homeowners’ claims from wildfire sparked by National Guard base.

Roaring fire hits Sao Paulo slum, destroying 300 shacks; 10 people hurt

Roaring fire hits Sao Paulo slum
SAO PAULO – A fire has raged through a Brazilian slum, destroying more than 300 homes.

Residents of the Real Parque neighborhood in Sao Paulo were frantically using buckets of water in an attempt to douse the flames that burned through their houses – many little more than shacks. Firefighters arrived … Read more : Roaring fire hits Sao Paulo slum, destroying 300 shacks; 10 people hurt.

Grains rally on flood concerns, strong demand as gold fails to break $1,300 threshold

Grains rally on flood concerns, strong demand

Grain prices rallied Friday on worries that heavy flooding in the central United States could damage this fall’s harvest.
Corn for December delivery rose 22.5 cents to settle at $5.2175. Soybeans for November delivery rose 32.5 cents to $11.26 a bushel and December’s wheat contracts rose 22.75 cents to $7.20 …. Source article  : Grains rally on flood concerns, strong demand as gold fails to break $1,300 threshold.

Investigator says fire accelerant found on bodies of girls killed in Connecticut home invasion

Fire accelerant found on 2 home invasion victims

NEW HAVEN, Conn. – Flammable liquid was spilled on or around two girls in their bedrooms before they died with their mother in a Connecticut home invasion, a fire investigator testified Friday.
Paul Makuc of the state fire marshal’s office testified at the New Haven trial of Steven Hayes, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Investigator says fire accelerant found on bodies of girls killed in Connecticut home invasion.

FBI: Florida bank robbers abduct teller at home, strap him to bomb and get away with loot

Fla. bank robbers strap bomb to abducted teller

CORAL GABLES, Fla. – Bank robbers pulled off a dramatic heist Friday, strapping a suspected bomb to a teller and ordering him to steal as much money as he could grab from the vault – all while his father was being held hostage.
It began when the three masked, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : FBI: Florida bank robbers abduct teller at home, strap him to bomb and get away with loot.

Hurricane Watch for Tropical Storm Matthew at Belize

BELIZE (GaeaTimes.com) — The officials of Belize has forced a hurricane watch for it’s coastal areas as the depression which was formed over the south-central Caribbean Sea has taken the shape of Tropical Storm Matthew. It is assumed that the storm will hit Belize this weekend.
According to National Hurricane Center (NHC) at Miami, Matthew … Read more »»».

With well killed, BP works to determine its own estimate of how much oil spilled in Gulf

BP works on own estimate for amount of oil spilled

NEW ORLEANS – BP PLC is working behind the scenes to formulate its own estimate for how much crude spewed from its well in the Gulf of Mexico, as it prepares for a potential legal fight with the U.S. government over fines.
The company knows the amount …. Original source  : With well killed, BP works to determine its own estimate of how much oil spilled in Gulf.

Canada sending dossier on fraud immigration agents to Punjab

TORONTO – Canada will soon send a dossier on “some of the worst fraudsters” operating in Punjab to the state government to curb immigration fraud, including fake NRI marriages, according to Immigration Minister Jason Kenney.

The Canadian government is also holding discussions with the Indo-Canadian community to bring in tougher measures to stop marriages of convenience …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Four tonnes of cocaine seized in Panama

Panama City, Sep 26 (IANS/EFE) Panamanian authorities seized about four tonnes of cocaine at a hideout along the Caribbean coast, 24 hours after confiscating three tonnes of the drug, an official spokesperson has said.

The drugs were seized by the National Aeronaval Service, or Senan, Friday near the mouth of the Belen river, almost 300 km … Read more >>.

Couple found dead in fields, honour killing suspected

SIRSA – The bodies of a young man and woman were recovered from cotton fields in this Haryana district and police Sunday said they suspected it to be a case of honour killing.

The victims were identified as Inder Pal, 22, and Maya, 18, and they were said to be in a relationship for the last …. Source  : Couple found dead in fields, honour killing suspected.

NATO says 2 service members killed

NATO: Bomb blast kills 2 troops
KABUL, Afghanistan – Two NATO service members were killed in a bomb blast in southern Afghanistan on Sunday, the military alliance said.

NATO said the troops were killed by an improvised explosive device, but provided no further details. The nationalities of NATO deaths are not generally released until after the next …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

China repeats demand for apology, compensation from Japan over arrest of boat captain

China repeats demand for Japan apology
BEIJING – China has reiterated its demand for an apology from Japan over the detention of a Chinese fishing boat captain whose arrest plunged relations between the Asian neighbors to their lowest level in years.

The statement from the foreign ministry late Saturday was issued after Tokyo refused earlier in the … Read more »»».

Bomb explodes near Thai PM’s residence

BANGKOK – A bomb exploded outside a horse stable near the Thai prime minister’s residence here early Sunday, but no one was injured, local press reports said.

The blast, which followed two earlier explosions Friday that injured three people, raised political tension and prompted police to beef up security in the capital and surrounding areas.
The …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Bomb explodes near Thai PM’s residence.

Delta flight bound for suburban NYC makes emergency landing at JFK; none injured

Delta flight makes safe emergency landing in NYC

NEW YORK – A jet carrying 60 passengers from Atlanta to suburban New York having landing gear problems has made an emergency landing at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York City.
Port Authority Spokesman Steve Coleman says Delta Connection Flight 4951, operated by Atlantic Southeastern Airlines, landed safely …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Delta flight bound for suburban NYC makes emergency landing at JFK; none injured.

Wreckage of small plane that reportedly left Los Angeles found in Mexico’s Baja peninsula

Wreckage of small plane found in Mexico’s Baja

CABO SAN LUCAS, Mexico – Mexican authorities have sighted the wreckage of a small plane believed to have taken off from Los Angeles, California with four people on board.
The wreckage has been found in the mountains of Baja California near its apparent destination, the resort of Cabo San … Read more : Wreckage of small plane that reportedly left Los Angeles found in Mexico’s Baja peninsula.

Seven dead in Haiti storm

Port-au-PRINCE/MEXICO CITY – Sudden tornado-force winds killed seven people in the Haitian capital of Port au Prince, according to media reports Saturday.

The high wind and heavy rain lasted only 20 minutes as it swept through the city Friday, according to radio reports. The wind force felled trees, lifted building roofs and flayed tents and temporary … Read more : Seven dead in Haiti storm.

Flooding eases in parts of Minnesota and Wisconsin but fight continues in some communities

Flood fight continues in parts of Minn., Wis.

MINNEAPOLIS – With 240 guests expected, Luke Fischer and Rachel Smith weren’t about to let the widespread flooding in southern Minnesota get in the way of their wedding Saturday.
The 24-year-olds, who live in the Minneapolis suburb of St. Louis Park, went back to her hometown of Waseca to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Flooding eases in parts of Minnesota and Wisconsin but fight continues in some communities.

First rescue capsule arrives at Chilean mine where 33 men have been trapped since early August

First rescue capsule arrives at Chilean mine

SAN JOSE MINE, Chile – The first of three rescue capsules specially built to lift out 33 miners trapped since early August arrived at the mine Saturday.
Two back-up rescue devices constructed at Chile’s naval shipyard are expected to be delivered next week.
The man-size capsule will be used to pull [..] Read the original article: here.

Matthew weakens to tropical depression over Belize; all storm warnings discontinued

Matthew weakens to tropical depression over Belize

MIAMI – Matthew has weakened to a tropical depression and is expected to dissipate in a day or two.
Forecasters at the U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami say that the storm is still soaking Belize, however. And it’s expected to continue producing rain even after the tropical depression dissipates.
On … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Matthew weakens to tropical depression over Belize; all storm warnings discontinued.

Matthew declines to depression, causes flooding in Central America

Matthew drops to depression, soaks Central America

GUATEMALA CITY – Matthew weakened to a tropical depression Saturday along the coast of Belize, dousing the southern part of the Central American nation and neighboring Guatemala with rain that caused flooding in coastal areas.
Guatemalan authorities urged people to stay off the roads as floods hit several towns in … Read : Matthew declines to depression, causes flooding in Central America.

BP fund czar, responding to criticism from Gulf residents, promises bigger, faster claims

BP fund czar promises bigger, faster claims

NEW ORLEANS – Victims of the Gulf of Mexico oil spill should start getting bigger payments faster, the administrator of the fund set up to help them said Saturday.
Kenneth Feinberg said he was responding to criticism from residents and businesses.
“Over the past few weeks, I have heard from the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Jewish settlers in West Bank prepare for end of building freeze as US races to rescue talks

Israel: Settlers brace for end of building freeze

JERUSALEM – Israeli settlers have hauled construction equipment into a Jewish settlement deep inside the West Bank, officials said Saturday, preparing to break ground on a new housing project even as the U.S. raced to prevent peace talks from collapsing with the end of an Israeli moratorium on … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Jewish settlers in West Bank prepare for end of building freeze as US races to rescue talks.

Chavez woos Venezuelan voters by pitching credit cards, cheap refrigerators ahead of elections

Chavez fights to keep control in legislative vote

CARACAS, Venezuela – Going into Sunday’s legislative elections, President Hugo Chavez pitched his candidates like a salesman, promising Venezuelans he will give them low-interest credit cards and discounted appliances from washing machines to TV sets.
Chavez turned to his long successful populist appeals seeking to woo voters more concerned …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Chavez woos Venezuelan voters by pitching credit cards, cheap refrigerators ahead of elections.

One killed, 10 injured in US party fight

LOS ANGELES – At least one person was killed and 10 injured in a fight at a birthday party in this US city Saturday, police said.

Knives, guns and bottles were drawn during a fight after a party, resulting in one death and 10 injuries, CNN reported.
Eight people were shot, one fatally, and … Read more : One killed, 10 injured in US party fight.

Post-storm assessments find thousands of aging tents destroyed in Haiti quake camps

Storm shreds aging tents in Haiti earthquake camps

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – The sudden, powerful storm that ripped through Haiti’s battered capital destroyed thousands of tents in the homeless camps where more than 1.3 million people live eight months after the earthquake destroyed their homes, shelter officials said Saturday.
The death toll from Friday afternoon’s storm stood at … Original source on Gaea Times at : Post-storm assessments find thousands of aging tents destroyed in Haiti quake camps.

Intimidating storm with lightning, ominous clouds delays K-State’s game against UCF

Intimidating storm delays K-State game
MANHATTAN, Kan. – Dark, swirling clouds seemed to envelop Kansas State’s stadium during a delay of almost 1?? hours in Saturday’s game against Central Florida.

The game was stopped early in the first quarter because of lightning that accompanied a storm system rapidly bearing down on the area.
For the next 20 minutes …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Intimidating storm with lightning, ominous clouds delays K-State’s game against UCF.

Pakistan flood donations nearing $616 mn: UN

NEW YORK – United Nations member states have pledged just under $616 million in aid for flood-devastated Pakistan, the organisation’s new emergency aid coordinator, Valerie Amos, said Saturday in New York.

The UN has appealed for more than $2 billion to assist the estimated 14 million Pakistanis whose living conditions have been severely affected by the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan flood donations nearing $616 mn: UN.