China benchmark stock index falls 7.2 percent in second day of global sell-off

Chinese stocks plunged Tuesday, with the benchmark Shanghai Composite Index falling 7.2 percent to its lowest close since early August amid the second straight day of global declines.

The drop, and the losses in many major markets, reflected growing fears of a sell-off on Wall Street once markets reopen in the U.S. following a public holiday on Monday, analysts said.

The Shanghai Composite index lost 354.69 points to 4,559.75, its lowest close since Aug. 2, when it ended at 4,407.73. The Shenzhen Composite Index of China's second, smaller exchange fell 7.7 percent to 1,337.24.

Trading was volatile, with the Shanghai index falling sharply in the …

In the courts

CASES dealt with by Nor th Avon magistrates (all addresses Bristolexcept where stated) on December 27, 2001 included:

Simon Afflick-Stewart, aged 34, of Woodhill Views, Nailsea, finedGBP600 for two counts of driving over four-and-a-half hours without abreak, and two counts of not using recording equipment to monitorlength of time driving.

Fokrul Alam, 31, of Westgate Street, Gloucester, fined GBP60 forspeeding and driving without a licence.

Ebony Maximen, 27, of Maskelyne Avenue, Manor Farm, fined GBP100for speeding.

Adrian Phillip Spicer, 27, of Clarence Avenue, Staple Hill, finedGBP235 for speeding.

David Charles Whyte, 32, of Smith Road, …

Inner-city credit union prepares to open doors

Harrisburg's low-income residents will soon have a community development credit union to call their own, now that the proposed Greater Harrisburg Credit Union has selected a manager and board and gathered nearly $2 million in deposit commitments.

The new credit union should be ready to open its doors by the second quarter of 1999, said Carl Payne, former CEO of the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency who has been tapped as manager designee.

Ultimately, the credit union hopes to secure deposit commitments totaling $5 million for the start-up, according to a Nov. 9 credit union status report. And about 1,500 people have completed a survey indicating they support the credit …

US diplomat says Pakistan should focus on safety, food, power shortages, not Musharraf

A senior U.S. envoy who spent three days in Pakistan said the South Asian ally should focus on problems of security, rising food costs and power shortages rather than the future of embattled President Pervez Musharraf.

"Frankly, President Musharraf is not the issue right now," Assistant Secretary of State Richard Boucher told reporters Wednesday who persisted in asking about the future of the longtime U.S. ally.

"This is not the problem that Pakistan faces right now," Boucher said. He said "there's dangers of bombings and suicide bombers. There's rising food prices. There's energy difficulties."

It was a message …

UN says Israel, Palestinians committed war crimes

The U.N.'s top human rights official backed a report Thursday accusing Israeli forces and Palestinian militants of war crimes during their conflict in Gaza last winter.

Navi Pillay's endorsement of the report by an expert group led by Judge Richard Goldstone came as Israel warned the U.N. Human Rights Council that approving the document risked undermining Middle East peace.

Pillay told the 47-member council that she supported the report's recommendations, "including its call for urgent action to counter impunity" _ meaning that Israel and Hamas must investigate and prosecute those who committed war crimes.

The 575-page report concluded …

Film critic Roger Ebert recalls Royko as a friend and guide to Chicago.

New Year's Day of 1967 brought a blizzard to Chicago, and bynightfall, the city was socked in. I was one of the few peopleworking in the Sun-Times city room that night. At the other end ofthe building, the Daily News was dark, except for a light in MikeRoyko's corner. At the coffee machine, he asked me how I was gettinghome. I said I didn't know. He said he had borrowed hisfather-in-law's Checker and would give me a lift.

I was a kid still working part-time. Mike was already the topcolumnist in town. He looked right at home behind the wheel of aChecker. He was in his 30s, but looked older; he was one of thoseguys like Robert Mitchum who always looked about 50, no matter …

AP: McCready says pregnant, can't return for court

ST. PETERSBURG, Florida (AP) — Country singer Mindy McCready said Wednesday she probably will not be able to bring her 5-year-old son back to Florida to fulfill a judge's order by Thursday afternoon — because she is nearly seven months pregnant with twins. By not returning as ordered, she risks arrest.

Speaking exclusively to The Associated Press, McCready said she and her mother have had a long custody battle over the boy, Zander. Her mother was awarded guardianship in 2007.

The battle became more public this week, when the Florida Department of Children and Families said a missing person report was filed with police after McCready took Zander from her father's home. McCready …

Tully's Coffee founder retiring as chairman

Tully's Coffee founder Tom O'Keefe says he's retiring June 30 as chairman of the company.

He made the announcement Friday at a shareholders meeting in Seattle. A company statement says a successor will be selected over the next 90 days by Tully's …

Rainbow of coalitions; We need to define ourselves by what we are -- not what we aren't

Coming out of the shadows is harder than coming out of thecloset. The gay/lesbian/bisexual movement is having its day in thesun, reaping the rewards of decades of fighting for rights enjoyedby heteros. Let's face it, when Disneyland wants to throw your gaywedding, you can pretty much say you've "arrived."

It seems like last year's illegal-immigrant marches put all of usHispanics in the spotlight despite our birthplace. The Hispanic"movement" to be acknowledged as just a brown American face in thecrowd -- rather than a bunch of non-English-speaking apple-pickerswho say "joo" when they mean "you" -- can stand to learn a fewlessons from our gay friends who instinctively …

Bargnani scores 31 points as Raptors beat T-Wolves

TORONTO (AP) — Andrea Bargnani matched his season-high with 31 points, Amir Johnson had a season-high 19 points and 11 rebounds for his second straight double-double and the Toronto Raptors beat Minnesota 97-87 on Monday night.

Jose Barea scored a season-high 16 points and Kevin Love had 13 points and 14 rebounds for Minnesota, which hasn't won in Toronto since Jan. 21, 2004. Toronto has won 14 of its last 15 games against the Timberwolves.

In the first meeting between Spanish point guards Jose Calderon and Ricky Rubio, the Toronto veteran finished with a narrow edge over the Minnesota rookie. Calderon had 14 points, six assists and three rebounds in 40 minutes, while Rubio …

JAPANESE AMERICANS, WORLD WAR II

Less than three months after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, which resulted in the mass removal and incarceration of all Japanese Americans living on the West Coast. The government's decision, made in the context of long and often intense anti-Japanese sentiment on the West Coast, ultimately resulted in the imprisonment of 119,803 Japanese Americans. American citizens constituted almost two-thirds of these prisoners held without trial. Although many inmates eventually obtained wartime releases from the camps, forced exile from their homes and incarceration produced lasting consequences.

The government's decision to incarcerate Japanese Americans was in part attributable to Americans' racist attitudes. General John L. DeWitt of the Western Defense Command, for example, explained the need to imprison all Japanese Americans by asserting that "a Jap is a Jap… . It makes no difference whether he is an Amer ican citizen, he is still Japanese" (Grodzins, p. 362). …

World's strongest laser unveiled at California lab

The world's most powerful laser, created to help keep tabs on the U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile while also studying the heavens, has been unveiled.

The super laser, known officially as the National Ignition Facility, was unveiled Friday at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory about 50 miles (80 kilometers) east of San Francisco.

California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein were among thousands of people in attendance at the ceremony.

The NIF, which is the size of a football field, consists of 192 separate laser beams, each traveling 1,000 feet (304.8 meters) in one-thousandth of a second to converge simultaneously on a target the size of a pencil eraser.

Federal officials said they planned to use it on a multifaceted assignment that would include ensuring aging nuclear weapons are functioning properly without resorting to underground testing.

Other uses will include the study of astrophysics and experiments in developing green energy programs.

Beginning next year, scientists also will use the laser for experiments aimed at creating controlled fusion reactions similar to those found in the sun.

"More energy will be produced by this ignition process than the amount of laser energy required to start it. This is the long-sought goal of energy gain that has been the goal of fusion researchers for more than half a century," said NIF director Edward Moses.

The laser will be used in astrophysics, allowing scientists to mimic conditions inside planets and new solar systems, something the lab's officials said would allow for conducting experiments that could never be undertaken on Earth before.

Gulf War vet explores emotional baggage

Joel Turnipseed was a 22-year-old philosophy student at theUniversity of Minnesota who went off to war with a bag full of books:Plato's Republic, Henry Thoreau's Walden and T.E. Lawrence's SevenPillars of Wisdom.

Now, more than a decade later, he's out with a new book on the1991 Gulf War, Baghdad Express (Borealis Books, $22.95), which alongwith Anthony Swofford's best-selling Jarhead is one of two soldiers'memoirs from that war that have been attracting notice.

Turnipseed was a Marine reservist, an automotive mechanic whodrove tractor-trailers full of ammunition. He survived Scud attacksbut stopped 25 miles short of the front lines.

On the eve of war, he describes a colonel bursting onto a stage,"grabbing the microphone from its stand while still in stride, likeWayne Newton doing Patton." He tells the troops, "Sodom Insane is notgoing to back down, and neither are we."

Turnipseed describes how the Pentagon got permission to dispensedrugs as a prophylactic measure against nerve-gas attacks. Itpromised to warn soldiers of risks and side effects, but "abysmallyfailed to keep its word."

He sees Iraqi POWs as "hollow men" who gave new meaning toNietzsche's writings on the "knowledge of misery."

It's a short book about a short war, but Turnipseed writes that he"will spend a lifetime trying to explain the complexity of emotions--anger, pride, love, honor, ambiguity, betrayal and hope--that inherein the motto Semper Fidelis: Always Faithful."

Gannett News Service

Stretching a point; Instead of working out with program host,

Let's all have a good stretch now and reminisce about the golden era of exercise TV. It was the '80s, and bouncing women in neon leotards were never more than a few channels away. � Remember how we would drop the newfangled term "aerobicise" in conversation? And how we thought Olivia Newton-John's hit "Physical" was about working out?

Now, like leg rainbow warmers, exercise shows have gone out of style -- all but disappearing from mainstream TV. It's not because we've cured the problem; the U.S. Centers for Disease Control's most recent statistics indicate that 28 percent of Illinoisans do no leisure-time exercise whatsoever. And those were the people who could muster up enough energy to respond.

"Those shows are just pretty much gone," says Charlene Prickett, who hosted the longest-running fitness show in North America, "It Figures," from 1976-1997. Now 64, Prickett is fabulous proof of the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, but she's no longer as-seen-on-TV.

"The audience is there, but it's not there apparently in enough number to make it worthwhile to television networks," she says by phone from Alberta in western Canada. "Fitness changes, just like television and food and cars. The No. 1 cause is always the bottom line."

Back when she was producing 165 episodes a year, Prickett just had to prove to studios that she'd be successful in syndication. Eventually the marketplace changed, and you were nothing if you didn't have a sponsor. "I was successful in producing a popular show, but I was not successful in reeling in advertisers," she says.

Now semiretired, she sells her DVDs online and hosts "high adventures" for fans in places like Hawaii. She's ready for that to change, too. "This year we're selling DVDs," she says. "Next year it may be downloadable from iTunes."

You could almost work up a sweat, trying to find a television workout. And if you happen to come across Richard Simmons, he's probably sitting -- as a late-night talk-show guest.

What happened to his shows? "I got into the infomercial world," says Simmons, who still regularly teaches classes at his Beverly Hills studio, Slimmons. "I've done 33 infomercials over the years." There was more money for everyone involved -- except for the audience. For instance, you may know Chicago's John Abdo from his fitness show. But more likely, you're familiar with his AB-Doer infomercial.

Like Prickett, Simmons transitioned to videos and DVDs. He's just finished his 59th DVD, "Sweatin' to the Oldies 5."

There's plenty of money in exercise, but without workouts on TV, cash-strapped Americans have one more excuse to be sedentary. "Because of money, people are putting themselves on the back burner in terms of health in general," says Simmons. Many shows have transferred to channels such as FitTV and ExerciseTV, which aren't available in Chicago.

Simmons says he's still offered shows, and is doing a new series in a different genre: reality TV. He's hoping to inspire people to move, but shows like "The Biggest Loser" and "Celebrity Fit Club" have ironically made weight loss a spectator sport.

The audience has changed, says Chicago's Dr. Michael Applebaum, whose consulting firm is called FitnessMed. "Watching fit people do fit things makes the majority of people, who are by definition nutritionally and physically unfit, uncomfortable," he says.

On the plus side, motivated exercisers have gotten out of the house and into health clubs. "There isn't a sense of accountability with television programming as there is with group classes or appointments with personal trainers," notes Johnny Vu, marketing director for CrossFit Chicago, which has locations in Lincoln Park and the West Loop.

"Americans have invested thousands of dollars on home exercise equipment such as P90X, Bowflex, and treadmills, only to have them gather dust and fill the 'For Sale' section on Craigslist," says Vu. "If you miss an appointment with most personal trainers and coaches, they'll still charge you for their time. When your pocketbook is hurting, you'll make sure to show up for those appointments."

Whether you're into health clubs, at-home equipment, DVDs or just about any other exercise medium, you're probably looking for one thing: a gimmick. Americans got bored with jumping jacks generations ago.

"Too many of the exercise shows became too similar," says Frank Nunez of Chicago's UNICUS Fitness, which is headquartered at the Fitness Lair at Michigan and Wacker. "It was always the same kind of thing, where the exercising was done to music or some kind of eight-count beat. All studies show that the only people that this appealed to were people who were already going to work out."

As for the sedentary audience, they quickly built up immunity to the routines. "If people from that crowd watched, it was just to enjoy the bodies on the show," says Nunez. Accordingly, UNICUS specializes in programs such as Wedding Boot Camp and Beach Body Emergency Classes.

The fragmentation of fitness is most obvious in the DVD industry. There's literally something for everyone. Jane Fonda has given birth to DVDs from "Dancing With the Stars," "American Gladiators," "Dirty Dancing," P90X, the New York City Ballet, Bollywood, Elmo, Kendra Wilkinson, Gilad Janklowicz, Carmen Electra and Bonnie Franklin (whose DVD is titled "I Hate to Exercise, I Love to Tap"). Among many others.

Exercise on TV is out of style now, but there's always the possibility of a comeback. "Television has always been subject to inexplicable disappearance of once very successful genres," says Fordham University television and media professor Paul Levinson. "What happened to the Western, wildly popular on television in the 1950s? The disappearance of the exercise show is much the same."

Today there are cooking shows all over the dial, as well as series about real estate, cakes, multiple births and little people. Soon exercise will be the only topic not covered.

So keep that clicker handy for the return of cardio TV. "I predict it's just a matter of time," Levinson says.

FITNESS FEATS

TRY ALTERNATIVES: VIDEO GAMES, WEB, PHONE APPS

For every excuse you can come up with not to exercise, there's a fitness alternative you probably haven't considered.

TV

Though exercise shows have mostly vanished from mainstream TV, a few are left if you look really, really hard. WTTW shows "Aire Yoga" daily on channel 11.4, but you have to get up at 5:30 to see it -- and speak Spanish.

You also can keep an eye out for WTTW specials on healthy lifestyles, such as "America's Walking." If you're lucky enough to get the Pentagon Channel, you'll enjoy "Fit for Duty" six times a day. FitTV and ExerciseTV are the cable channels you're looking for, but you won't find them in Chicago.

ON DEMAND

You'll find more than just movies if you look. Comcast, for instance, offers selections from FitTV.

VIDEO GAMES

Dance Dance Revolution is still an entertaining way to fool yourself into exercising. Wii Fit is a great way to interest kids in moving. You also can look for titles such as "My Weight Loss Coach," "My Fitness Coach," "Gold's Gym Cardio Workout" and "Jillian Michaels Fitness Ultimatum."

INTERNET

Go to YouTube and search on "exercise." See? You'll also find free videos at websites such as ExerciseTv.TV, and ToneItUp.TV. There's a dedicated fitness video page on Hulu, with offerings from Denise Austin, ExerciseTV, Self and more. If you're a NetFlix member, you'll find exercise videos you can "watch instantly." Thin-site.com has a full video library of exercise options, including "Coffee Break Workouts" that you can do at your office.

HEALTH CLUBS

If you're intimidated by the beautiful sweaty people, take advantage of kindler, gentler facilities such as Curves. You can burn up to 500 calories in 30 minutes, at 16 Chicago locations.

SMARTPHONE APPLICATIONS

BlackBerry? Try FitDeck Mobile, which illustrates exercises that don't require equipment. Android, Palm, or Windows Mobile? Fitsync offers a collection of workout routines. If you're into iPhones, PumpOne offers 20 different apps, and iPod Touches have a big selection as well.

EXERCISE EQUIPMENT

There's not much exercise on TV, but you can exercise while you watch TV on your treadmill. If you invest in a $199.95 FitDesk, you can combine a stationary bicycle with your laptop computer, working up a sweat while you work (or shop, or play games).

Paige Wiser

Color Photo: "Jillian Michaels Fitness Ultimatum" gives you a workout regimen.; Color Photo: LEOTARD LEGIONS: Exercise shows, once a popular staple on television, have gone out of style. Nowadays, you can almost work up a sweat trying to find a TV workout.; Color Photo: FitDesk ($199.95) combines a stationary bike with a laptop.; Color Photo: "I got into the informational world," said Richard Simmons.; Color Photo: Olivia Newton-John got "Physical" in the 1980s, but things have changed.

Pet of the Week

Meet Sam! A Chihuahua/Pomeranian mix, Sam is 3 years old and loves to be petted. We're not sure just how much of his 11 pound frame is his beautiful long hair, but we do know that he's waiting patiently to meet you today at the Michigan Humane Society's Rochester Hills Center for Animal Care. The adoption fee includes sterilization, age-appropriate vaccinations and much more. Visit or call (248) 852-7420 for more information and be sure to provide the pet ID number, 13000424. Photo by Chris Johnson.

Indians' Masterson has surgery

CLEVELAND (AP) — Indians starter Justin Masterson has undergone surgery on his left, non-pitching shoulder.

The team said Masterson had a torn labral repaired arthroscopically by Dr. Craig Morgan on Wednesday in Wilmington, Del. Masterson is expected to recover and be ready for training camp in February.

Masterson was the Indians' most consistent starter this season. The right-hander went 12-10 with a 3.21 ERA in 33 starts.

PD News

Upcoming Professional Development

CAs in Industry PD Day

Financial professionals in industry have to stay informed about many facets of business, including emerging financial management trends, compliance and reporting changes, and other outside influences that could affect their businesses.

This conference is designed to provide relevant information for use in the workplace, and will focus on building skills in participants' areas of responsibility.

Dec 6,8:40am-5pm, Vancouver

Corporate Controllership Program

Due to unprecedented demand, we've added an additional offering of the Corporate Controllership Program on January 25-30, 2008, at the Banff Centre in Banff, Alberta. For more information, or to register, visit www.controllership.ca.

Audit & Accounting

Business Combinations: The Asset Changes

Changes made in July 2001 to the accounting standards for business acquisitions have had a ripple effect on the CA Handbook, which now defines "a business," prescribes the methods for a business combination, and segregates capital assets. The Handbook has also introduced valuation testing and a measurement of fair value.

This seminar will help participants understand the practical application of these accounting standards.

Dec 5, 9am-5pm, Vancouver

CICA Stock-Based Compensation

Stock-based compensation awards are a common form of compensation offered to bodi employees and non-employees.

This seminar will provide participants with the knowledge needed to make policy decisions, (each policy decision affects how such awards are accounted for), and to apply the detailed rules underlying this standard. It has been amended to focus on the fair value method, and will include the Black-Scholes model and its required inputs.

Nov 26, 9am-5pm, Vancouver

Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities: A Guide to Practical Issues

By now, most companies have addressed the implications of AG-15, but many accountants continue to find its application challenging. This workshop will provide a forum in which to discuss practical issues arising from the guideline's application, and issues arising from interpretations that have surfaced since its initial adoption. Attendees will gain a better understanding of the guideline, and of the various factors that should be considered when assessing an entity for consolidation under the variable interest model, or when assessing the accounting impact of various structures.

Dec 5, 9am-12:30pm, Vancouver

Revenue Recognition

In addition to basic principles, this seminar will include a survey of many of the more significant revenue recognition issues addressed by EIC-141 and EIC-142.

The course material that will be covered is intended to apply to a broad range of industries. By the end of the session, participants should have the ability to analyse contractual arrangements, identify revenue recognition issues, and formulate solutions.

Nov 29, 9am-12:30pm, Vancouver

Telling It like It Is - Auditor Communications with Management and Audit Committees

Generally Accepted Auditing Standards (GAAS) require that auditors communicate with both management and audit committees on an everexpanding range of topics.

As the scope of GAAS continues to expand, so do the risks for auditors. You can minimize your risk by making sure you know what and when you are required to report back to both management and audit committees.

This seminar will review, in thorough detail, what should be included in these communications, when they need to be issued, and how they can be presented.

Nov 30, 9am-12:30pm, Vancouver

Management

Active Listening Skills: Listen Twice, Speak Once

This workshop is designed to help you develop that rare talent of active listening. It will help you improve your interaction and communication with others by giving you specific, practical skills that you can use immediately to increase listening effectiveness. This workshop will provide useful tips and techniques for anyone who needs to elicit accurate information from others.

Dec 3, 9am-5pm, Vancouver

Building Better Business Cases

Wise capital expenditure is critical to business success. Yet many capital expenditure (CAPEX) business cases are littered with flaws that end up costing companies thousands of dollars.

This seminar will give participants the tools needed to better evaluate and critically monitor CAPEX business cases. It will be particularly valuable for members in industry, and for practitioners who regularly review and evaluate these kinds of cases.

Nov 27, 9am-5pm, Vancouver

Performance Measurement: Balanced Scorecard for the Public Sector

This seminar will give participants a well-established methodology with which to implement the balanced scorecard and meet strategic goals. It will be of interest to public sector managers who are looking for accurate ways to measure organizational performance and align resources with strategic goals.

Through lecture, discussion, and a public sector case study, you will learn how to apply performance measurement in practical ways.

Nov 21, 9am-5pm, Vancouver

Practical Tips for Controllers and CFOs The Case Course

This seminar will help sharpen the skills of industry members and their advisors. Using group and break-out sessions, this practical course will involve working through a number of in-depth, realistic cases. By the end of the seminar, attendees will have increased their practical knowledge and gained many useful tips for dealing with everyday responsibilities.

Topics covered will include: improving the relevancy of financial reporting to users, negotiating an offer to finance with a bank, resolving ethical dilemmas, contract review from a financial perspective, and practical foreign exchange risk management.

Nov 28, 9am-5pm, Vancouver

Negotiating Workshop

The objective of this two-day workshop is to enhance participants' negotiating skills.

Negotiating is not only a skill that can be learned but also an approach to life that can determine not only your own prosperity, but also the quality of life of those around you. Your negotiating skills will be much more effective once you possess the comfort and confidence of knowing how to create win-win solutions.

Dec 4-5, 9am-5pm, Vancouver

Negotiating for Cross-Cultural and Team Negotiations

Today, most business negotiations in BC involve discussions among people from different cultural backgrounds. Understanding the different behavioural expectations of these various cultures is vital to your success as a negotiator.

In addition, most corporate negotiations are conducted in teams, and it's crucial that participants in this unique forum understand bargaining dynamics and principles.

Exploring concepts specifically related to cross-cultural and team negotiation, this workshop will enhance your abilities as a negotiator.

Dec 6, 9am-5pm, Vancouver

Taxation

Planned Giving - Inter Vivos & Post-Mortem Strategies

Numerous legislative changes pertaining to charitable giving have been made over the past several years. This seminar will inform attendees about these changes and other current, related developments so that they can advise philanthropic clients and/or charities on the various inter vivos and post-mortem charitable giving strategies.

Nov 2, 9am-12:30pm, Vancouver

RIP: Compliance Matters Related to Terminal Filing Preparation

This seminar will focus on detailed tax compliance matters related to preparing filings for deceased individuals and testamentary trusts. It will include a significant degree of technical detail to address the myriad issues that can arise when planning and preparing the various individual testamentary filings.

Nov 29, 9am-5pm, Vancouver

RIP: Estate Planning to Minimize Tax Leakage

This seminar will focus on estate planning matters for owner-managers and high-net-worth individuals. It will address, in detail, tax matters relevant to a typical estate freeze transaction. It will also cover the important matters to consider when estate freeze transactions involve the use of various types of trust relationships.

Other technical topics will include various charitable giving tax considerations, as well as interesting life insurance concepts that should be considered when planning the owner-manager estate.

Dec 13, 9am-5pm, Vancouver

Section 85: Transfer of Property

CAs are often engaged by their clients to assist with transactions designed to accomplish objectives such as creditor-proofing, estate planning, and corporate restructuring.

Section 85 of the Income Tax Act is often required to ensure that clients' objectives can be met in a tax-efficient manner. However, the provisions of this section are complex, and interact with a number of related anti-avoidance provisions.

This seminar will cover selected tax aspects of the transfer of property to a corporation, as well as the use of the section 85 rollover rules.

Dec 6, 9am-5pm, Vancouver

Tax & Other Issues for Investors (and Their Advisors)

The landscape of investment alternatives continues to evolve. This seminar will update your knowledge of the more recent portfolio investments available in the marketplace, and of the related income tax issues for the investment owner or advisor. In addition to addressing the taxation of portfolio investments, the seminar will discuss practical planning issues to improve portfolio tax efficiency.

Nov 29, 9am-12:30pm, Vancouver

Executive Breakfast Seminars

Investing in China-An Introduction from Tax and Transaction Perspectives

This seminar will provide an overview of China's tax regime, and examine the critical transactional matters investors need to be aware of when contemplating investing in China. It is designed for company executives who plan to expand into China, or for advisors who are advising clients to do so.

Nov 13, 7:30-9:30am, Vancouver

Handling Termination of Employment

This seminar will provide an overview of the issues surrounding employment termination, and will include any recent updates in this area. By attending this executive briefing, participants will receive a comprehensive summary, become more aware of all the issues relating to employment termination, and learn a practical framework for planning.

Nov 14, 7:30-9:30am, Vancouver

Transfer Pricing: Latest Developments

This seminar will provide participants with up-to-date information on the latest transfer pricing developments, both in Canada and internationally. Key aspects of economic analyses will be covered, with an emphasis on sharing best practices. The seminar will also focus on resolving disputes with taxation authorities.

Nov 14, 7:30-9:50am, Vancouver

Reduce Your Exposure to Directors' & Officers' Liabilities

To what extent are corporate directors personally liable for their actions? This seminar is designed for members who are directors or officers, or who want to help their organizations and their clients minimize risks and liabilities.

Every corporate client has a board of directors. Members of a board have extensive legal duties, with corresponding liabilities.

At this session, participants will learn about the obligations and pitfalls to which directors and officers are exposed, and more importantly, about practical procedures to avoid personal liability.

Nov 14, 7:30-9:30am, Vancouver

[Sidebar]

CPD REMINDER

The 2007 CPD reporting form must be completed and submitted by January 31, 2008.

All CAs resident in British Columbia must have a minimum of 14 hours, and must complete a 3-year cycle requirement of 70 hours for the period ending Dec 31, 2007.

For more information on the CPD requirements, visit www.icabc-pd.com.

[Sidebar]

For details on these seminars and the fall 2007 PD program, please refer to your latest PD brochure or visit our website at www.icabc-pd.com.

China shares fall on policy uncertainty

Chinese shares fell Tuesday to a seven-week low, led by real estate stocks amid fears the government will take steps to slow other sectors of the economy after vowing to control rising property prices.

The benchmark Shanghai Composite Index dropped by 72.45 points, or 2.3 percent, to close at 3,050.52, the lowest since Oct 30. The Shenzhen Composite Index for China's smaller second exchange fell 2.7 percent to 1,109.37.

A short-lived rally Monday fizzled amid concern about the direction of economic policy sparked by the government's announcement that it would take steps to slow a rise in housing prices, analysts said.

"They are worried that the government will also take such quick and drastic policies in other industries," said Cao Xuefeng, an analyst for Huaxi Securities in the western city of Chengdu.

Investors took profits on real estate shares. China Vanke Ltd., the country's biggest developer, off 3.9 percent to 10.3 yuan, and rival Poly Real Estate Group down 2.8 percent to 21.52 yuan.

Nonferrous shares fell on sliding commodity prices. Aluminum Corp. of China sank 4.5 percent to 13.47 yuan. Jiangxi Copper Ltd., the country's biggest metal producers, lost 4 percent to 35.88 yuan.

Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Ltd., China's biggest commercial lender, declined by 1.4 percent to 5.07 yuan. China Construction Bank Ltd. fell 1.7 percent to 5.74 yuan, while Bank of China Ltd. dropped by 0.7 percent to 4.1 yuan.

In currency markets, the yuan weakened to 6.8287 to the U.S. dollar, down from Monday's close of 6.8276.

Al Hunt, Editor, Bloomberg News

(This is not a legal transcript. Bloomberg LP cannot guarantee its accuracy.)

AL HUNT, EDITOR, BLOOMBERG NEWS, IS INTERVIEWED AT BLOOMBERG SURVEILLANCE

APRIL 29, 2011

SPEAKERS: TOM KEENE, BLOOMBERG SURVEILLANCE HOST

KEN PREWITT, BLOOMBERG SURVEILLANCE CO-HOST

AL HUNT, EDITOR, BLOOMBERG NEWS

7:51

TOM KEENE, BLOOMBERG SURVEILLANCE HOST: Let's bring in Al Hunt, of course, Political Capital through the weekend and in Bloomberg Radio Sunday afternoon. Al, anybody in the Washington Bureau wearing a wedding dress today?

AL HUNT, EDITOR, BLOOMBERG NEWS: Tom, they're all - we sent them all over to London for those wedding dresses. So we're just celebrating fiscal frugality here in Washington.

KEENE: You've been watching Washington for decades. What a difference in London. There is an American way. What is the pulse right now of Washington as people get ready for the White House correspondence dinner this weekend?

HUNT: Well, they're waiting to see what Tom Keene wears. Does he - what kind of bowtie does he put on? Does he bring his -

KEN PREWITT, BLOOMBERG SURVEILLANCE CO-HOST: His Irish Guard's uniform.

HUNT: Right, exactly. There's a great deal of chatter (ph) about that and we'll all find out around six o'clock tomorrow night I suppose.

PREWITT: Al, listen, among the pros, the political pros in Washington, how serious is Donald Trump being taken?

HUNT: Not very. And let me condition that a little bit, Ken. He could affect the debate, he could affect the dialogue. Most pros don't think he'll run. They think he's just doing this to get publicity. But the longer he keeps getting publicity the more he shaves (ph) the race. Sometimes in ways not altogether advantageous for Republicans.

KEENE: You've got to go out and raise money. Your thoughts on the President's - your thoughts on the media's reporting of the President's efforts to being fundraising.

HUNT: I don't think the President's going to have any problems fundraising. He raised $750 million last time. My guess is he'll top $1 billion this time. He'll lose some on Wall Street, but he'll pick that up in California in the valley and places of that sort. And a lot of the money will be raised - because it's Democratic money, but a lot of it will be raised for fear of the Republicans. He will - there will be a great deal of let Paul Ryan's budget or let the right-wing Republicans take over and fear tends to raise money on both sides.

KEENE: Can the Republicans raise money?

HUNT: Yes, they can. And they'll raise a lot of money. They'll do a lot - whoever the nominee is in all likelihood will do better than John McCain did last time. So it will be the most expensive race ever.

KEENE: Tell us about Political Capital this weekend.

HUNT: Chris Van Hollen, who's the ranking Democrat on the House Budget Committee, Paul Ryan's counterpart and Paul Ryan's intellectual equal, which says a lot because they're both very, very smart guys, totally different views. But I think a real important figure in the House Democratic caucus. And someone who usually has interesting views on economic issues.

KEENE: Very good. Al Hunt, I'll see you this weekend. Look forward to that. Political Capital, folks, through the weekend on Bloomberg Television. You can hear it Sunday afternoon, 3 p.m. on Bloomberg Radio.

7:54

***END OF TRANSCRIPT***

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U.S., Iran Hold First Talks in Decades

BAGHDAD - Iran and the United States resumed public diplomacy Monday for the first time in more than a quarter century. The meeting in Baghdad between ambassadors on security in Iraq could produce a chapter in world history for its success or a footnote for its failure.

Iraqi officials said the meeting between U.S. Ambassador Ryan Crocker and Iranian Ambassador Hassan Kazemi Qomi was cordial and focused solely on Iraq. The session ended at about 2:30 p.m. after four hours.

Ali al-Dabagh, a government spokesman, said the meetings were focused solely on Iraq.

"There are good intentions and understanding and commitment between the two countries," Ali al-Dabagh, an Iraqi government spokesman, told reporters.

The talks were held at Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's office in the Green Zone compound in Baghdad. Iraq was represented at the talks by National Security Adviser Mowaffak al-Rubaie.

Just before 10:30 a.m., al-Maliki greeted the two ambassadors, who shook hands, and led them into a conference room, where the ambassadors sat across the table from each other. Al-Maliki then made a brief statement and left the room.

He told both sides that Iraqis want a stable country free of foreign forces and regional interference. The country should not be turned into a base for terrorist groups, he said. He also said that the U.S.-led forces in Iraq were only here to help build up the army and police and the country would not be used as a launching ground for a U.S. attack on a neighbor, a clear reference to Iran.

"We are sure that securing progress in this meeting would, without doubt, enhance the bridges of trust between the two countries and create a positive atmosphere" that would help them deal with other issues, he said.

Speaking in Tehran, Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki said Monday the talks could lead to future meetings, but only if Washington acknowledges that its Middle East policy has not been successful.

"We are hopeful that Washington's realistic approach to the current issues of Iraq by confessing its failed policy in Iraq and the region and by showing a determination to changing the policy guarantees success of the talks and possible further talks," Mottaki said.

Washington wants Tehran to stop arming, financing and training militants, particularly Shiite militias that are fighting American and Iraqi troops. Tehran wants Washington out of Iraq, period.

"The American side has accusations against Iran and the Iranian side has some remarks on the presence of the American forces on Iraqi lands, which they see as a threat to their government," al-Dabagh said in a briefing to reporters during the closed-door meeting.

But much more encumbered the narrow agenda, primarily Iran's nuclear program and more than a quarter-century of diplomatic estrangement after the 1979 Islamic revolution in Iran.

Further, the Iranian Shiite theocracy fears the Bush administration harbors plans for regime change in Tehran and could act on those desires as it did against Saddam Hussein in Iraq.

Washington and its Sunni Arab allies, on their side, are deeply unnerved by growing Iranian influence in the Middle East and the spread of increasingly radical Islam.

Compounding all that is Iran's open hostility to Israel.

Those issues, combined, were what made this opening of the U.S.-Iranian minuet both so important and so interesting.

Will this first meeting, as the Iraqis openly hope and as the Iranians and Americans may quietly aspire, be sufficiently cordial and productive that a second meeting becomes possible? Should that happen, will a future dialogue involve higher-level officials - perhaps Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Iran's foreign minister?

On Saturday, Crocker was circumspect when asked about prospects for further meetings.

"It's going to start with one meeting and see how it goes," Crocker said. "We're coming prepared to talk about Iraq."

A political aide to al-Maliki told The Associated Press that Iraq hoped to play a mediator's role in easing tensions between the Americans and Iranians, which Iraqi officials have routinely said are being played out in Iraq.

The adviser, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak on the matter, said Iraq would remain neutral as regards to its position in the disputes.

"But we want to try to close the gap, to be partners in the dialogue," the official said. "It is time to look forward, not backward."

There were U.S. Navy exercises in the Persian Gulf last week and tough talk from President Bush about new U.N. penalties against Tehran over its nuclear program. The United States says Tehran is trying to build a bomb, while Iran says it needs nuclear technology for energy production.

Further complicating the talks, Iran said Saturday that it had uncovered spy rings organized by the United States and its Western allies.

Iran accuses the U.S. of improperly seizing five Iranians in Iraq this spring. The U.S. military is holding the five. Iran says they are diplomats; Washington contends they are intelligence agents.

The U.S. also has complained about the detention or arrest of several Iranian-Americans in Iran in recent weeks. State Department spokesman Tom Casey said that issue was not on the U.S. agenda for Monday.

Regardless, the Baghdad talks are the first of their kind and a small sign that Washington thinks rapprochement is possible after nearly three decades of animosity. Iran, angry over the blunt show of U.S. military power off its coast, almost refused to come.

Iran's nuclear agency trying to stop computer worm

TEHRAN, Iran (AP) — Iran's nuclear agency is trying to combat a complex computer worm that has affected industrial sites throughout the country and is capable of taking over power plants, Iranian media reports said.

Experts from the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran met this week to discuss how to remove the malicious computer code, or worm, the semi-official ISNA news agency reported Friday.

The computer worm, dubbed Stuxnet, can take over systems that control the inner workings of industrial plants. Experts in Germany discovered the worm in July, and it has since shown up in a number of attacks — primarily in Iran, Indonesia, India and the U.S.

The ISNA report said the malware had spread throughout Iran, but did not name specific sites affected. Foreign media reports have speculated the worm was aimed at disrupting Iran's first nuclear power plant, which is to go online in October in the southern port city of Bushehr.

Iranian newspapers have reported on the computer worm hitting industries around the country in recent weeks, without giving details. Friday's report also did not mention Bushehr.

The Russian-built plant will be internationally supervised, but world powers remain concerned that Iran wants to use its civil nuclear power program as a cover for making weapons.

Iran denies such an aim and says its nuclear work is solely for peaceful purposes.

While there have been no reports of damage or disruption at any Iranian nuclear facilities, Tuesday's meeting signaled a high level of concern about the worm among Iran's nuclear officials.

The destructive Stuxnet worm has surprised experts because it is the first one specifically created to take over industrial control systems, rather than just steal or manipulate data.

The United States is also tracking the worm, and the Department of Homeland Security is building specialized teams that can respond quickly to cyber emergencies at industrial facilities across the country.

Sabo Silences His Critics With a Homer, 2 Doubles

BRADENTON, Fla. Tired of the comparisons and lofty expectations,Chris Sabo took a few hacks Thursday at McKechnie Field.

The White Sox' newly acquired designated hitter homered in hisfirst at-bat and went 3-for-4 with two doubles and three RBI in a13-3 romp over the Pittsburgh Pirates.

And then he swung away at the enormous burden of proof that he'sfacing after being hired to replace Julio Franco, who left the Sox toplay in Japan.

"If you're expecting Julio Franco numbers, well, I don't knowabout that," Sabo said. "But if I'm healthy, I'll hit 20-25 homersand drive in 80. Those are pretty good numbers for a guy who is5-10, 180 pounds. Not too many guys can do that."

And if he can avoid the back trouble that marred his last seasonwith the Baltimore Orioles, Sabo promises Thursday's performance wasno fluke.

"When I'm healthy, I've always done a good job," he said. "It'sas simple as that. I've hit home runs before. If I'm healthy, I'llhit."

BAD CHOICE? For those who wonder why the Texas Rangers couldsign catcher Mickey Tettleton to a one-year, $550,000 contract onWednesday - two days after the Sox signed Sabo for the identicalprice - here's general manager Ron Schueler's explanation:

"The money was a lot more when we talked to (Tettleton),"Schueler said. "And we were trying to stay away from thestrikeouts."

Last season, Sabo struck out once every 6.8 at-bats, whileTettleton whiffed once per every 3.5.

DEBUT: Reliever Rob Dibble allowed one run in his first inning of work Thursday, but pitched a perfect secondinning, displaying the control that the Sox are seeking.

"He's getting better," Schueler said. "When he gets out there,grunts and tries to throw the ball 100 miles per hour, the armstrength isn't there. But when he stays behind the ball and hismechanics are good, he's been great."

DAY OFF: Lamont used most of his regular players on Thursday,but didn't bring outfielders Tim Raines or Lance Johnson.

Johnson isn't ready yet, having reported to camp on Monday.And Lamont is taking his time with Raines, 35, who likely will playtoday.

KRUK UPDATE: Although Schueler insists John Kruk said he wasretiring, the former Phillies first baseman has yet to make anannouncement. And though Kruk might be indecisive, Schueler saidhe's done pursuing him.

"I don't know why he keeps fooling us," Schueler said. "He toldus he wanted no part of it. Something must have happened with thePhillies to make him bitter.

"(But) it's to the point now where he's too far out of shape.He can't catch up. I'd rather use the money on another pitcher if Ineed it," Schueler said.

Which means the White Sox skipper remains concerned aboutpitcher Wilson Alvarez's left shoulder.

Alvarez has been scratched as the starting pitcher on Sunday.

WEIGHT A MINUTE: Alvarez weighed in at 244 pounds, which isonly nine over his listed playing weight.

"It's just a matter of distribution," Schueler said. "Withrunning and stretching, that'll come off. (His arm) was finethrowing, and throwing long. But he's got to work hard the next 12days."

Jesse backs Pincham as GOP woos black vote

R. Eugene Pincham picked up a mayoral endorsement from the Rev.Jesse L. Jackson on Sunday, while Mayor Daley took Easter off andGeorge S. Gottlieb looked for black votes.

Jackson's backing for Pincham only two days before the electioncame after he took a pass at campaigning for Danny K. Davis in theFebruary Democratic primary.

"I hope he wins," said Jackson, now a "shadow" senator fromWashington, D.C., and television talk show host. "I'm not involvedin the campaign."

He said he was "not involved in local political elections inChicago."

"The reason I'm not involved in this race is that I don't have theenergy to get involved in this process," he said.

A two-time Democratic presidential primary candidate who has notruled out another run, Jackson was elected nonvoting "shadow" senatorin November and is lobbying to make the city the nation's 51st state.

Jackson's low-key comments are a contrast to past mayoralelections, in which he played a central role in fostering blackcandidacies and sparking black voter turnout, crucial if Pincham isto stand a chance at defeating front-runner Daley, the Democraticnominee.

The support was offered only after Jackson was asked about themayor's race during a press conference he called after preaching anEaster sermon.

Jackson made no mention of Pincham, the Washington Partycandidate, in the sermon.

Jackson's lack of involvement has been a source of irritation tosome of Pincham's supporters.

"Jackson's conspicuous absence has raised questions," saidPincham spokesman Paul Davis, who said Jackson did get involved inlocal politics last year when he endorsed Sen. Paul Simon (D-Ill.)for re-election and backed Neil F. Hartigan's candidacy for governor.

Paul Davis, who also worked in the Danny K. Davis campaign, saidJackson met the County Board member twice but "support nevermaterialized."

He said the Pincham campaign did not ask Jackson for anendorsement.

On Saturday, WBBM-TV reported that former PUSH officer ThomasTodd said at a Pincham fund-raiser, "Former protester Jesse Jacksonnow lives on the Daley plantation."

Jackson, asked to respond to Todd's comments, said, "I shouldnot dignify those accusations. . . . What (Pincham) needs Tuesday ispeople knocking on doors and not on each other."

Jackson was in Chicago to give the Easter sermon at CarterTemple Church, 7841 S. Wabash, and to be inducted into the BlackHeroes Hall of Fame.

Daley did not campaign Sunday because it was Easter, saidcampaign manager David Wilhelm.

But radio spots he is running show his concern about turnouttomorrow, predicted to hit a record low of 43 percent.

"Hey you . . . there is an election Tuesday," the spot says. ". . . A lot of people . . . think that it's over."

Daley plans to wrap up his campaign tonight at an "I LoveChicago" rally for campaign workers.

On the campaign trail, Pincham told a congregation at theRedeeming Church of Christ Spiritual, 6920 S. Harper, and a liveradio audience that blacks should take advantage of being the largestsingle voting bloc in the city.

GOP candidate Gottlieb, a Chicago police sergeant who hopes todraw black votes in an area that he used to patrol, deemed himselfthe only candidate to reach out to all segments of the community.

Gottlieb stumped at Grace Mission Church, 400 N. St. Louis, andsaid Daley's low profile was typical of the mayor's campaign. "Thevoters have a right to know how a candidate stands," Gottlieb said.

Contributing: Ray Long.

Black patriots: Past, present and future

Black patriots: Past, present and future

Dating back to the Revolutionary War, a Black soldier, Crispus Attucks, was the first patriot to die in the line of duty.

Historically, Blacks have always been major patriotic icons and contributors to this country.

Members of Chicago's famed Eighth Regiment served honorably and heroically under the French command during World War I.

It was Dorie Miller, a Navy cook, who distinguished himself with valor at Pearl Harbor and Milton Olive III, an 18-year-old Black man from Chicago who served in the Vietnam War and gave his life for this country. He received a medal of honor for his significant contribution.

Historically, Blacks have served this country in time of war and crisis.

To commemorate the Black men and women who have given their time, sweat and lives for this country, the National African American Military Museum committee will hold a patriotic rally on Oct. 27. at 11 a.m. to pay tribute to the Black veterans in America and honor the victims from the terrorist attacks.

"I hope this will serve as an incentive to the youth of our community, to demonstrate the need for good citizenship in our community and patriotic service to our nation," said Col. Eugene Scott, Chicago Defender publisher.

Program participants and VIPs will meet at the Bronzeville Military Academy for a reception and march with a local high school ROTC band to the Victory Monument at 35th and King Drive.

For more information on the march or to be a participant, contact Col. Scott at the Chicago Defender at (312) 225-2400.

Article Copyright Sengstacke Enterprises, Inc.

Austrian luger logs fastest speed in practice run

Austrian luger Manuel Pfister hit a speed of 154 kph (95.69 mph), the fastest time ever on the blistering-fast Whistler Sliding Center course, during a practice run on Thursday.

Although it's the fastest speed recorded on the 16-curve course, it can not be recognized as a record because it didn't happen during competition.

Germany's Felix Loch reached 153.97 kph (95.68 mph) during a World Cup event at Whistler last year.

Pfister topped out while sliding through the last curve, nicknamed "Thunderbird."

Pfister's brother and teammate, Daniel Pfister, thinks the track record will be eclipsed during the Olympics.

"I think we're going to really break it, like 156 or 157 km/h," Pfister said. "We're getting closer and closer."

Manuel Pfister's performance stood out on a day when many of the top medal contenders, including two-time gold medalist Armin Zoeggeler of Italy, did not have their sleds set up for race competition.

Looking for career broadening opportunities? Then look no more!

The Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics and Technology (ASAALT) is offering developmental assignments for all DA employees who are GS-12 and Level III certified in the Contracting and Acquisition Career Program (CP-14). Assignments are for 6 months to 1 year. The formal developmental program is run through the Contracting Career Program Office, which funds travel and temporary duty costs.

Currently, the ASAALT has three developmental employees who will be happy to share their experience with you. Please contact Linda Fowlkes at linda.fowlkes@saalt.army.mil.

For Contracting Career Program Office information, contact Sally Garcia at (703) 704-0112, or for Competitive Professional Development Program details, go to http://asc.rdaisa.army.mil/docs/programs/cp/FY04CPDAnnoucement.PDF.

Int'l Paper can proceed with Temple-Inland buyout

MEMPHIS, Tennessee (AP) — International Paper Inc. will be allowed to go ahead with its $3.7 billion acquisition of smaller rival Temple-Inland Inc. after reaching a settlement with the Justice Department's antitrust division.

The settlement announced Friday calls for the combined company to sell three containerboard mills within four months of the deal's closing. The plants set to be divested are Temple-Inland mills in Ontario, California, and New Johnsonville, Tennessee, and International Paper's Hueneme, California, facility.

There is the potential for two 30-day extensions for selling the plants, which represent 970,000 tons of containerboard mill capacity. The Justice Department must also approve the buyer or buyers of the mills.

As it was originally proposed, the combined company would have controlled about 37 percent of North American containerboard capacity, the Justice Department said in a statement. Corrugated boxes made from containerboard are used to ship more than 90 percent of all goods nationwide, it noted.

The deal in its original form would have "substantially lessened competition in the production and sale of containerboard," the department said.

International Paper is the largest producer of corrugated packaging in North America, while Temple-Inland is the third-largest. The two companies said Friday that they expect to close the deal soon.

Memphis-based International Paper said in September it was acquiring Austin, Texas-based Temple-Inland for $32 per share. The deal also includes $600 million in debt.

Shares of International Paper rose 12 cents to $31.60 in afternoon trading, while Temple-Inland's stock added 12 cents to $31.99.

Nov. wholesale, retail prices inch up

WASHINGTON Wholesale prices edged up a modest 0.2 percent lastmonth as a stagnant economy kept a lid on inflationary pressures, thegovernment said today.

The Labor Department said the small November rise in itsProducer Price Index, which measures inflationary pressures beforethey get to consumers, reflected falling food prices and the bestperformance for energy costs since July.

Retail sales, also announced today, inched up 0.3 percent inNovember.

The Commerce Department said sales totaled a seasonally adjusted$153.1 billion, up from $152.7 billion in October. Sales wererevised for October, making them unchanged from September rather thanfalling 0.1 …

IMF sets Portugal bailout loan rate, EU not yet

LISBON, Portugal (AP) — The International Monetary Fund's top official negotiating Portugal's bailout says the country will have to pay interest rates between 3.25 percent and 4.25 percent for the IMF's portion of the rescue loans.

Poul Thomson said Thursday the lower rate will apply for the first three years of the bailout, while the higher one will kick in after …

IN THIS CORNER: ; Tips to ship by this holiday season

Before you ship gifts to your loved ones this holiday season,read these tips on shipping and packing from The UPS Store in SpringHill.

* Use new cardboard boxes designed for shipping, professionalgrade tape and foam peanuts or bubble wrap for cushioning.

* Don't use moving or gift boxes, cellophane, masking or ducttape and don't cushion with newspapers or real …

IN THIS CORNER: ; Tips to ship by this holiday season

Before you ship gifts to your loved ones this holiday season,read these tips on shipping and packing from The UPS Store in SpringHill.

* Use new cardboard boxes designed for shipping, professionalgrade tape and foam peanuts or bubble wrap for cushioning.

* Don't use moving or gift boxes, cellophane, masking or ducttape and don't cushion with newspapers or real …

Marriage moves forward?

Argentina is the latest country to grant equal marriage rights to same-sex couples, an issue that is far from settled in the United States. However, there are some hopeful signs of progress on gay marriage in this country.

Just two weeks ago, a federal district court in Massachusetts struck down the federal Defense of Marriage Act, a law that prevents the federal government from recognizing same-sex marriages or civil unions, thus denying citizens the right to various legal benefits typically given to married straight couples.

The Massachusetts court dealt with two separate cases involving DOMA. In one, the court ruled that DOMA violates the 10th Amendment reserved powers …

Armed man killed in Mosul explosion.

NINEWA / Aswat al-Iraq: An armed man has been killed while trying to plant an explosive charge in Mosul, the center of northern Iraq's Ninewa Province on Friday, a Ninewa security source reported.

"An armed man has been killed on Friday in an explosive charge he tried to plant on the main highway …

2ND PARK CURFEW HEARING SET.(Local)

For the second time in a month, city officials will hold a hearing concerning a proposed curfew for Riverfront Park. Aldermen also will ask for comments on extending the regulations to the Chestnut Street Park.

The city's aldermen are considering the restrictions as a way to curb vandalism and late-night teenage drinking at both parks.

The hearing has been scheduled for 7:45 p.m. today in City Hall, and alderman are expected to adopt the new regulations at a meeting after the public hearing.

City officials approved the Riverfront Park curfew last month but were forced to repeal the restrictions because of a technical …

Web top 10.(Main)

The most-viewed stories on timesunion.com for Monday:

1 Antifreeze found in bodies of couple

2 Faith tinged with anger

3 New minority leader goes against tradition

4 California couple calls for orgasm for peace

5 A championship to dye for

6 …

Argentina's president-elect names Cabinet including 37-year-old banker as economy minister

President-elect Cristina Fernandez on Wednesday named the 37-year-old head of a state-run bank to be Argentina's economy minister when she takes office next month.

Fernandez appointed Martin Lousteau, president of the Banco de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, to replace outgoing Economy Minister Miguel Peirano.

The president-elect will retain several ministers from the Cabinet of her husband, outgoing President Nestor Kirchner, including Cabinet Chief Alberto Fernandez and Foreign Minister Jorge Taiana.

Labor Minister Carlos Tomada, Defense Minister Nilda Garre and Planning Minister Julio De Vido were also confirmed by the president-elect, who will …

Bell tops Monacelli for title

BALTIMORE Ron Bell rolled a strike in the final frame of thechampionship game to beat Venezuela's Amleto Monacelli 255-230Saturday and win the $150,000 PBA Fair Lanes Open.

The victory gave Bell not only a check for $27,000 for his firstPBA victory, but a berth in the prestigious Tournament of Champions,which begins April 19 in Bell's hometown of Akron, Ohio.

Monacelli, who settled for second place and $14,000, trailedfrom the start as …

Azeri U-19 footballers draw with Germany in friendly.

Baku, 13 May (AzerTAc) -- Azerbaijan`s Under-19 football team have been held to a 3-3 draw by Germany`s FC Germania 08 Ober-Roden in a friendly match. The game was part …

Versatile actress Lois Nettleton.(Capital Region)

Byline: MARY ROURKE - Los Angeles Times

LOS ANGELES - Lois Nettleton, an actress who went from Broadway plays to roles in movies and on popular television series, has died. She was 80.

Nettleton died Friday of complications from lung cancer at the Motion Picture and Television Fund Hospital, publicist Dale Olson said.

She made her Broadway debut in a 1949 production of "The Biggest Thief in Town," a comedy by Dalton Trumbo.

She appeared in more than a dozen other plays, on and off Broadway, over the next decade. As Blanche DuBois in a 1973 production of "A Streetcar Named Desire" by Tennessee Williams, Nettleton avoided the typical …

VELAZQUEZ TAKES A FALL.(SPORTS)

Byline: BILL ARSENAULT Staff writer

SARATOGA SPRINGS -- John Velazquez, one of the leading jockeys at Saratoga Race Course, survived a bad spill in the fifth race Saturday.

Repute, ridden by Velazquez, appeared to clip heels with Stogie Two coming to the top of the stretch.

Velazquez was thrown and appeared to get stepped on by Jimeric.

Velazquez, who complained of pain in his left shoulder, was taken by ambulance to Saratoga Hospital, where X-rays were taken. He was treated and released. Repute broke through the hedges and raced around the infield until he was caught. The horse was uninjured.

Velazquez is battling for the jockey …

Flowers: How they Changed the World.(Brief article)(Book review)

Flowers: How They Changed The World

William C. Burger

Prometheus Books

59 John Glenn Drive, Amherst, NY 14228-2197

1591024072 $23.00 www.prometheusbooks.com

Flowers are one of the most attractive aspects of the outdoors; but they didn't evolve just for humans to appreciate. Botanist and science writer William Burger examines the role of flowers in the natural …

Zimbabwe rights activist gets bail after 3 months

A prominent Zimbabwean rights activist has been granted bail after three months but says she's too ill to leave the hospital.

Jestina Mukoko was taken from her home in early December and held in an undisclosed location until being jailed Dec. 23. She's accused of plotting to overthrow President Robert Mugabe.

She testified she was tortured and she was taken to the hospital …

COLLEGE STUDENTS INITIATE FOOD WASTE DIVERSION

Second installment in a series visits colleges and universities where students launched the diversion programs.

Part II

A "shout-out" on a community food list-serve for examples of food waste composting on college and university campuses yielded more than 50 responses. Part I of this series (July 201 0) focused on programs that are integrated into the schools' curriculum. Part Il profiles programs launched wholly or largely as student initiatives.

STROLL through Goucher College in Baltimore, Maryland and you'll find compost tumblers strategically placed around the campus, beckoning passers by to give a hardy spin. The rotating compost barrels are part of an …

Canada's national system of innovation.

Jorge Niosi with Andre Manseau and Benoit Godin, Canada's National System of Innovation. Montreal and Kingston: McGill-Queen's University Press, 2000, 222 pp.

At the beginning of the book, the principal author makes clear that, "This book is about NSIs as defined in a restricted way," which he goes on to specify. "A national system of innovation (or national R&D system) is a system of interacting private and public firms, universities and government laboratories aiming at the production and use of science and technology knowledge within national borders. Interaction among these units may be technical, commercial, legal, social and financial, inasmuch as the goal of the interaction is the development, protection, financing or regulation of new science and technology." The book …

U.S. tourist dies in attack by bear on Romania trail.(Main)

BUCHAREST, Romania - A bear attacked a group of U.S. tourists on a remote trail in the Carpathian Mountains, killing a woman and injuring two other people, authorities said Sunday.

The group of six tourists chased off the bear when it tried to approach them near a cabin about 75 miles north of Bucharest, but the …

FOR CHELSEA, BUSINESS AS USUAL.(MAIN)

Byline: Associated Press

Chelsea Clinton didn't participate in the national "Take our Daughters to Work" campaign Wednesday because work is too close to home.

President Clinton said his 13-year-old only child told her parents, "Well, you both work where you live. I'm going to school."

The Ms. Foundation, organizer of the campaign, expected 500,000 girls between the ages of 9 and 15 to accompany an adult to their place of work.

Said Clinton: "We discussed it this morning and she said, 'You know. It's easier for me. You work where you live. I know what it's like.' She said, 'I missed a lot of …

DirecTV, Liberty Media detail spinoff plans

DirecTV Group Inc., the nation's largest satellite TV provider, said Monday it will be combined with the entertainment unit of Liberty Media Corp. and spun off into a separately traded company.

The deal will give DirecTV assets that would enhance the offerings of its satellite TV operations: regional sports networks in Seattle, Denver and Pittsburgh as well as a 65 percent stake in the Game Show Network and FUN Technologies, a provider of online sports games and information.

Media mogul John Malone, who controls Englewood, Colo.-based Liberty Media, will have a 24 percent voting stake in the new company, down from the 48 percent Liberty now holds. He will …