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NBA Finals Spurs vs. Heat Game 6: Can LeBron Rebound, Or Will San Antonio Cement Big 3 Legacy?

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 18:01:35 -0400

The San Antonio Spurs are one win away from a fifth NBA title after their victory over the Miami Heat in Game Five on Sunday.

Tony Parker shrugged off a hamstring injury and Manu Ginobli shined as the Spurs beat the Heat 114-104.

Parker scored a team-high 26 points as the Spurs commanded a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven series.

Manu Ginobli had a rare start in Game Five with 24 points and 10 assists for his best game of the Finals as the Spurs closed in on their first NBA title since 2007.

Danny Green set a new Finals record for three-pointers by surpassing Ray Allen's mark of 22 set during his seven-game title run with Boston in 2008.

LeBron James and Dwyane Wade each scored 25 points for the Heat, who are heading home to Miami needing two consecutive wins to retain their title.

Video Credit: Reuters

Yahoo, Apple, Facebook, Microsoft Move Towards Transparency On NSA Leak

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 17:32:35 -0400

In early June, 29-year-old Edward Snowden leaked classified government information regarding the large-scale surveillance of phone calls and Internet data by the US government.

The controversy has caused massive public outcry for and against the government’s actions.

Since the initial report from the Guardian and Washington Post, tech companies, in the interest of transparency, have been releasing information regarding their compliance with the government’s programs.

In a company blog post on Tuesday, Yahoo chief executive Marissa Mayer said that Yahoo received between 12,000 and 13,000 data requests from law enforcement, which include requests by the secretive Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA).

Yahoo is not alone in this trend towards transparency. Yesterday, Apple revealed it received between 4,000 and 5,000 requests for access to accounts and devices and on June 14, Facebook said it had received between 9,000 and10,000 requests for access to as many as 19,000 accounts. Microsoft also revealed that it had received between 6,000 and 7,000 requests affecting 32,000 consumer accounts.

In support of the surveillance, the director of the National Security Administration told Congress today that confidential NSA tracking has prevented more than 50 potential terror plots since 9/11.

FOMC Preview: Will We Hear Anything New From Ben Bernanke On When Fed Will Taper QE?

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 16:38:56 -0400

Jonathan Corpina, senior managing partner with brokerage firm Meridian Equity Partners Inc., speaks about what to expect for Wednesday's highly anticipated FOMC announcement.

Obama may be looking for a new chairman of the Federal Reserve. Obama said in an interview Monday Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke has stayed in his post longer than he wanted, a signal that the central bank chief will leave when his current term expires next year.

“Ben Bernanke’s done an outstanding job,” Obama said in an interview with Charlie Rose, when asked about nominating him for another term subject to Senate approval. “He’s already stayed a lot longer than he wanted or he was supposed to.”

All eyes are on Bernanke this week as the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meets June 18-19. Investors fear that the central bank may begin scaling back its bond-buying program after Bernanke in May said that the central bank could possibly begin to downsize its program in the next few meetings if the economy sees enough improvement. The two-day Fed meeting will end on Wednesday with a press briefing and economic forecast from Bernanke.

The Core PCE price index, which measures the prices paid by consumers for goods and services excluding food and energy prices, hit its lowest level ever recorded for April. The Fed is on record as using PCE as its primary inflation gauge, and economists fear that the economy is entering a disinflationary environment.

Ahead of the Fed meeting, the Bureau of Labor Statistics released inflation data for May, which showed the consumer price index rising for the first time in three months. Consumer prices edged up 0.1 percent in May, according to the Labor Department, while consumer prices outside of food and energy rose 0.2 percent last month.

Separate data showed housing starts rose 6.8 percent in May, less than forecasts, to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 914,000 units, according to the Commerce Department, missing expectations for a 950,000-unit rate.

In company news, Adobe Systems Inc. (Nasdaq:ADBE) is gearing up to report second-quarter earnings after the bell Tuesday. Analysts polled by Thompson Reuters forecast the company to report FY 2013 Q2 EPS of 34 cents on revenue of $1.01 billion, compared with a profit of 60 cents a share on revenue of $1.12 billion a year earlier.

Barbra Streisand Takes A Swipe At Orthodox Jews In Israel

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 15:57:56 -0400

Singing legend Barbra Streisand took a swipe at Orthodox Jews in Israel on Monday (June 17) who force women to sit in the back of buses and assault them for following religious rituals traditionally reserved for men.

The Oscar and Emmy-winning actress and singer, who is Jewish, was speaking at a ceremony at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem where she was awarded an honorary doctorate.

"It's distressing to read about women in Israel being forced to sit in the back of a bus or when we here about women of the Wall having metal chairs hurled at them when they intend to peacefully and legally pray. Or women being banned from singing in public ceremonies," Streisand said.

"But I'm also pleased to read that things are changing here, repairs are slowly being made and that's very good," she added.

A public bus system operating in some Israeli cities practices gender segregation in deference to ultra-Orthodox rabbis who have long wielded political power in the Jewish state.

Some of these clerics are also battling against a women's prayer group seeking to liberalize worship at the Western Wall, one of Judaism's holiest sites.

The Brooklyn-born Streisand, 71, also offered some criticism of her own country's failure to achieve full gender equality.

"I don't pretend to know all the historical, legal or cultural details and I know that solutions don't come easy, as they don't in the United States, where women are still making 80 cents for every dollar that a man makes," she said.

During her visit to Israel, Streisand will sing at a 90th birthday celebration for the President and will perform at two concerts in Tel Aviv.

Video Credit: Reuters

Gen. Keith Alexander And Sean Joyce Testifying At NSA Hearing

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 15:46:34 -0400

General Keith Alexander and FBI Deputy Director Sean Joyce talk about the effectiveness of the NSA surveillance program using specific examples.

Rep. Mike Rodgers Questions Gen. Keith Alexander About NSA Capabilities

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 15:45:53 -0400

General Keith Alexander is questioned by Rep. Mike Rodgers about the NSA's surveillance capabilities.

Baby Gorilla Celebrates 2nd Birthday In Style

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 15:18:54 -0400

Monroe the baby gorilla got the royal treatment for his second birthday at the San Diego Zoo on Monday. His very own birthday party even had a cake, with balloons and gifts. And what kind of a party would it be without loved ones? Monroe was accompanied by his aunts, parents and his best friend Frank.

Monroe had a ball, eating the blueberries off his cake and playing with his gifted toys. Lead Keeper Peggy Sexton commented on the fun party:

"As you can see on the exhibit, we have cake and cupcakes for the gorillas and they are made out of ice, no-cal flavoring, lemonade and different flavors. They are also filled with all kinds of fruits and berries, which is their normal diet and the frosting is made out of cooked yam and bananas."

The party was supplied and made possible by the keepers and volunteers: Enrichment is important for these primates as they need to stay stimulated and active. The conservation of gorillas is imperative as these cute little guys are critically endangered.

Monroe he may be entering the terrible two’s but today he is as happy as a pig in mud, or should I say as a gorilla at their very own birthday party.

Video Courtesy Of Reuters

Watch Dramatic Helicopter Rescue Of Two Stranded Teens Off Cliff In California

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 13:22:57 -0400

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) rescued two teenagers by helicopter on Saturday, June 15 from a 8,600-foot-high (2621 m) cliff in the Sierra Buttes about a 120 miles (193 km) from Sacramento.

The CHP Valley Division Air Operations said they responded at 0545p.m. Saturday (0045gmt June 16) after receiving a call from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection informing them that two boys, ages 16 and 17, had been stranded after climbing a steep ridge line.

Video Credit: Reuters

Why Is Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg In South Korea?

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 12:36:37 -0400

Facebook Inc (NASDAQ: FB) Chief Executive Officer Mark Zuckerberg met South Korean President Park Geun-hye in Seoul on Tuesday, June 18 during his first visit to the country.

It was the latest among the series of Park's meeting with chiefs of global information technology companies to seek advice for her 'creative economy' vision.

During the meeting with Park, Zuckerberg said South Korea is an important market for his company and he would study ways to cooperate on her 'creative economy' vision, a statement from the presidential office said.

Park's 'creative economy' vision calls for creating new business opportunities and jobs with the information and communication technology as well as culture and other realms.

Zucherberg arrived in Seoul on Monday, June 17for his two-day visit and he is expected to have a meeting with Samsung Electronics officials, including Vice Chairman Lee Jay-young, to discuss ways to enhance cooperation in their business.

The Facebook CEO is scheduled to leave the country later on Tuesday on his personal jet.

Video, Image Credit: Reuters

May CPI And Housing Starts Rise Ahead Of Fed Meeting

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 11:55:50 -0400

On the economic calendar, housing starts rose less than expected in May, while consumer prices edged up last month. Housing starts rose 6.8 percent in May to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 914,000 units, according to the Commerce Department, missing expectations for a 950,000-unit rate. Consumer prices edged up 0.1 percent in May, according to the Labor Department, while consumer prices outside of food and energy rose 0.2 percent last month.

Protest Chaos As The Streets Of Rio Are Littered With Broken Glass

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 11:48:03 -0400

It was clear that Rio felt the brunt of the protests the morning after the mass chaos erupted as the streets were littered with glass. The mass protests were conducted to demonstrate the anger toward the poor public services, police violence and corruption.

As many as 200,000 people took to the streets with their rage throwing rocks at police, setting fires to parked cars and vandalizing buildings. Monday’s protest was the latest one in as many as the past two weeks. The mass protests have gained much of their size and momentum through the power of social media.

The protestors believe that public services are suffering for things like new stadiums and it comes out of their tax paying dollars. For example there has been a small increase in public service buses and subways. There have been more protests that are being organized for the next few days.

Video Courtesy Of Reuters

China Launches First Carbon Emissions Exchange

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 11:43:15 -0400

China launched its first pilot carbon emissions exchange in a southern city on Tuesday (June 18), as the country struggles with toxic air pollution and a growing carbon footprint.

Under the cap-and-trade scheme being introduced to the booming southern metropolis of Shenzhen, companies will have to buy allowances from others if they want to exceed carbon limits.

The Shenzhen Emission Exchange's CEO said that the scheme would benefit society overall.

At a conference in the city the day before, Director of Energy Transition at the Netherlands' Ministry of Economic Affairs, Hugo Brouwer, said he believed the trading scheme was the best way to reduce emissions.

"It's a very market-oriented way to keep the levels of CO2 emissions low and get it lower. I think the system is a natural way to lower emissions, so that all parties involved can do it in a well-balanced way," he said.

Other platforms due to start in 2013 include one in the business hub of Shanghai and Hubei province, both homes of large steel companies.

Four more pilot exchanges are due to open next year.

In January, record levels of smog in Beijing and other northern cities caused a public outcry, with many demanding that China review the growth-at-all costs economic model of recent decades.

The exchange in Shenzhen will not immediately lead to a big cut in China's emissions of greenhouse gas, but climate campaigners have welcomed it as a statement of intent by Beijing.

Video Credit: Reuters

China Builds World's Fastest Supercomputer

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 11:04:49 -0400

Making the world’s fastest supercomputer was a group of designers in China. The impressive computer allows 33,860 trillion calculations per second, and runs almost twice as fast as the previous U.S record holder. It was built by a group of researchers from the National University of Defense Technology.

They developed the fast technology which is called Tianhe-2 or in English Milky Way 2. This cost 100 million USD, and it is expected to be put into use later this year as explained by the deputy chief designer, Li Nan:

"Supercomputers are used to perform simulations in big scientific projects such as the manned space program and the lunar exploration program. The more complicated and accurate the simulation becomes the more calculation power we need in a computer. So many big projects cannot be carried out without supercomputers,"

Video Courtesy Of Reuters

New Search Continues For Body Of Former Teamster Boss Jimmy Hoffa

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 10:22:41 -0400

FBI agents will resume searching an overgrown field in suburban Detroit on Tuesday for former Teamsters boss Jimmy Hoffa, who disappeared nearly 38 years ago and is thought to have been murdered by members of organized crime.

A backhoe was driven onto the property, not far from where Hoffa was last seen alive, on Monday (June 17) and video recorded from a helicopter by Detroit television station WDIV showed FBI agents digging for the union leader's remains.

By nightfall, there was no indication any remains had been found and the search was halted for the day.

An Oakland County sheriff's deputy said digging would resume at 10 a.m. on Tuesday in Oakland Township about 20 miles north of the restaurant, where Hoffa was last seen.

"It's my fondest hope that we can give that closure, not just to the Hoffa family, but also to the community. To stop tearing that scab off with every new lead and bring some conclusion," said Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard.

The search for Jimmy Hoffa, who was 62 when he disappeared in 1975, has spawned many theories and leads over the years as to his final resting place that ranged from the Everglades in Florida to a horse farm in Michigan, but he has never been found.

Law enforcement officials decided to comb the lot after reputed mobster Anthony Zerilli, 85, told the FBI Hoffa was buried there.

According to a copy of Zerilli's 21-page manuscript, provided by Chasnick, Hoffa was dragged out of a car, bound and gagged, hit with a shovel and buried alive under a cement slab in a barn on the property.

Video Credit: Reuters

Aussie, Aussie, Aussie!! Australia Qualifies For World Cup In 2014

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 10:11:39 -0400

In a nail biting final watched by 80,000 fans at Sydney’s Olympic Stadium on Tuesday- Australia came on top to beat Iraq 1-0. Australia is now the second country to qualify for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. The hero of the game was no doubt, Josh Kennedy who kicked the goal with seven minutes to go.

This will be the third consecutive World Cup for the Australian Socceroos much to the delight of the elated crowd. The rain soaked crowd erupted in cheers as the winning goal was made and Iraq lost their chance to make the World Cup.

Video Courtesy Of Reuters

Michelle Obama And Daughters Visits Ireland's Wicklow National Park

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 09:27:49 -0400

With the U.S. president locked in high-level meetings at a secluded hotel in Northern Ireland, first lady Michelle Obama and her daughters took the chance to cross the border into Ireland.

Michelle Obama, along with daughters Malia and Sasha, visited Wicklow Mountains on Tuesday (June 18).

Casually dressed in jeans and jackets, the Obamas were shown around the national park by a tour guide.

The Wicklow Mountains are just 10 miles south of Dublin, and were a haven for Irish running from British rule

Over the course of centuries, millions of Irish have immigrated to the United States in search of a better life, and there are huge Irish communities in cities such Chicago, where Barack Obama started his political career.

His great-great-great grandfather emigrated from Moneygall, a tiny town in central Ireland to New York City in 1850, which the Obamas visited in 2011.

Video Credit: Reuters

George Washington's Written Letter About The U.S Constitution Up For Sale

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 09:23:50 -0400

George Washington was the first President of The United Sates and now a letter written by the icon in regard to the constitution of the United States is set to be sold by Christie’s Auction House in New York City. Washington presided over the convention that drafted the Constitution.

The constitution is the supreme law of the United States of America. It originally consisted of seven articles. It went into effect on March 4^th 1789. Since then it has been amended twenty-seven times.

This letter written by George Washington is about this constitution. It is now on display before it goes under the hammer. It is expected to fetch between $1-2 million USD.

Video Courtesy Of Reuters

Australian Woman Develops A French Accent After Head Injury From Car Crash

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 08:35:42 -0400

A woman in Australia, Leanne Rowe, woke from a car crash with a rare injury called Foreign Accent Syndrome. What this means is now the woman has a French accent, instead of an Australian accent, after a bus crash eight years ago. The condition, she says has left her depressed:

"It makes me so angry because I am Australian. I am not French,"

Psychologist Dr. Karen Coot says the syndrome is caused by tissue damage to the area of the brain that is responsible for speech:

"It's just an accident, an accident of chance that happens to that person. That what happens to their speech, happens to overlap with the features of a known accent,"

Foreign Accent Syndrome is so rare that there have only been 62 cases globally in the past 70 years. Rowe is one of the number who is suffering with a condition that still has many questions unanswered, as she wonders if she will ever sound like herself again.

Video Courtesy Of Reuters

Michelle Obama Enjoys 'Riverdance' While President Attends G8 Summit

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 18:14:55 -0400

Michelle Obama and her daughters Malia and Sasha attended the Gaiety Theatre in Dublin on Monday, June 17 for a special performance of Riverdance.

They were accompanied by Sabina Higgins - wife of the Irish President Michael Higgins, Fionnuala Kenny - wife of Taoiseach Enda Kenny, and a group of Irish teenagers, including some from Moneygall, where Mr Obama's ancestors lived.

"My husband, you know the guy, President Obama and I visited the city as well as the lovely village of Moneygall where my husband's ancestors come from and again... yay to our students who are here. I got to see them backstage. Everywhere we went we were welcomed with huge smiles and open arms and lots of rain, which we handled. And when we left we knew that our girls had to experience all of the warmth and beauty of this place for themselves," Mrs. Obama told the cheering audience, in remarks she made before the performance.

She also revealed she and her daughters had never seen Riverdance live.

"And now we couldn't be more thrilled to see a live performance of Riverdance. We have never seen Riverdance live. This is our first time. How many people here, it's their first time seeing it live? So very cool, right? Very cool. This show has been performed more than 10,000 times. It's been seen by more than 23 million people in 45 countries on six different continents. And with all the singing, dancing and energy - it's such a perfect representation of Ireland itself," she said.

On Tuesday (June 18) the three Obama women will travel to Glendalough in Country Wicklow before departing for Berlin to accompany Barack Obama.

Video Credit: Reuters

Miss Connecticut Erin Brady Crowned Miss USA 2013 In Vegas

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 17:41:41 -0400

Miss Connecticut Erin Brady, a 25-year old accountant, was crowned Miss USA in Las Vegas on Sunday, June 16. On hand to place the crown on her successor was Miss USA 2012 Nana Meriwether.

Miss Alabama Mary Margaret McCord was first runner up in the pageant that was held at the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino.

Contestants from all 50 U.S. states and Washington, D.C. are judged in swimsuit, gown and interview competitions.

Miss USA goes on to compete in the Miss Universe competition, both of which are partially owned by real estate developer and reality TV star Donald Trump.

Video Credit: Reuters

Kim And Kanye Welcome Daughter: Highest Paid Celebrity Baby Photos Revealed

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 17:40:35 -0400

Reality star Kim Kardashian gave birth to her first daughter with rap star Kanye West Saturday, five weeks earlier than her due date. The high profile couple has been a favorite of the tabloids since they began dating in May 2012.

As of now the celebrity pair has yet to reveal any baby pictures or the baby’s name. Not shy of making her life public or cashing in on private moments many are now speculating how much the baby pictures are worth and who will be the first to publish them.

It seems every gossip magazine wants their cover to feature the latest news on Hollywood. From weddings, divorce to baby photos… which leads me to my next question, which celebrity has got the highest pay out for their baby pictures?

It’s no surprise that Hollywood A-Listers Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie take the cake in winning the most expensive baby photos.

Their twins Knox and Vivienne were born in 2008 and the price for the double Jolie-Pitt snaps was a whopping $11 million from People and Hello. The couple reportedly gave that money to their charity, the Jolie-Pitt Foundation.

Jennifer Lopez and former husband Marc Anthony also sold photos of their twins to People in March of 2008 for an impressive price tag of $6 million.

The Hollywood heart throb who is rarely seen with a shirt on Mathew McConaughey sold pictures of his son Levi, born in 2008, to OK magazine for $3 million.

The celebrity baby photo is a huge money making machine, as tabloids bid for the right of the exclusive shots that invite us into the private world of the stars we so admire from a distance. No doubt we’ll be seeing Kim and Kanye’s new baby on magazine stands in no time.

The question remains, which mag will have the honor of the exclusive first photo and at what price tag?

FOMC Meeting Preview: What Bernanke's 'Substantial Improvement' in the Labor Market Really Means

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 16:44:36 -0400

David Williams, director at Strategic Gold Corporation, weighs in on the Federal Reserve's FOMC meeting June 18-19 and whether the market should expect to see Chairman Ben Bernanke change course on its current monetary policy.

Man On Plane Restrained After Claiming To Have Poisoned Everyone Aboard

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 16:14:53 -0400

A passenger aboard a United Airlines flight to Newark allegedly threatened to have poisoned other travelers on the flight on Monday (June 17).

The flight from Hong Kong landed safely and the passenger is now in police custody. It is not yet clear if there is any truth to the passenger's claim that any people on the flight were poisoned.

He was reportedly restrained by other passengers on board and the crew decided to continue on to Newark.

Local reports say the man appeared to be mentally disturbed and was taken to nearby University Hospital for a psychiatric evaluation.

Video Credit: Reuters

Fire, Batons And Rage As Police Clash With Angry Protestors In India

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 16:00:28 -0400

Protesting the recent gang rape of a young girl were protestors in Northern India, the angry members of the protest set a bicycle on fire as they chanted and rallied. Police were seen beating the protestors with batons as they later fired rounds of shots into the air.

The protest was conducted to put a spotlight on women’s safety and their protection against sexual assault. Sadly, sex crimes in India are common: The National Crime Records Bureau says more then 24,200 rapes were reported across the country in 2011 and there is an assault every 20 minutes.

People in India take to the streets in protest to rally for a better policing system against assault on women and sex crimes.

Video Courtesy Of Reuters

Michelle Obama And Daughters Visit Trinity College In Ireland

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 14:54:48 -0400

With the U.S. president locked in high-level meetings at a secluded hotel in Northern Ireland, first lady Michelle Obama and her daughters took the chance to investigate their Irish roots on Monday (June 17).

After arriving in Belfast with her husband, Michelle crossed the border to Dublin to speak to university experts on the president's ancestors, attend a show of traditional Riverdance step dancing and visit the nearby Wicklow mountains.

Over the course of centuries, millions of Irish have emigrated to the United States in search of a better life and there are huge communities in cities such Chicago, where Barack Obama started his political career.

His great-great-great grandfather emigrated from a tiny town in central Ireland

The first lady and daughters Malia and Sasha - casually dressed in jeans and jackets against the rainy Irish weather - were given a tour of the vaulted, book-lined library at Trinity College.

Having seen the Book of Kells, an ancient illuminated manuscript book created by Celtic monks in about 800 AD, they examined specially prepared records of the family's Irish ancestors.

Video Credit: Reuters

Sarah Palin's Speaks About Conflict In Syria: ‘Let Allah Sort It Out'

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 14:47:06 -0400

Never too far from controversy are former Alaskan governor and Republican vice Presidential Candidate Sarah Palin: This time she was quick to criticize the U.S intervention in the Middle East saying “let Allah sort it out”.

"D.C. is one hot mess. Militarily, where is our commander in chief? We're talking now more new interventions. I say until we know what we're doing, until we have a commander and chief who knows what he's doing, well, let these radical Islamic countries who aren't even respecting basic human rights, where both sides are slaughtering each other as they scream over an arbitrary red line, "Allah Akbar," I say until we have someone who knows what they're doing, I say let Allah sort it out."

The comment comes 2 days after U.S President Barack Obama authorized sending weapon to Syrian rebels in their fight to overthrow Syrian President Bashar al-Asaad, as the conflict in Syria has now been going on for over two years.

The conflict in Syria has claimed the lives of an estimated 92,000 at the hands of President Bashar al-Assad and his forces against any sort of opposition to his government and control.

Video Courtesy Of Reuters

Paris Air Show Opens Amid Titanic Battle Between Airbus And Boeing

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 14:17:52 -0400

Big finance waded into a rain-soaked Paris Airshow on Monday (June 17) with more than $10 billion in orders for jumbo passenger jets as plane makers dueled over strategy for large aircraft.

The world's biggest aircraft lessor, a unit of General Electric, became the second buyer to endorse a larger version of Boeing's 787 Dreamliner, weeks after the lightweight jet went back into service after a three-month grounding.

The company said it would sign up for 10 of the stretched 787-10 passenger planes, joining a $30 billion order haul that industry sources say Boeing is assembling to formally launch the jet on Tuesday.

And an influential German leasing company, Doric Asset Finance, little known outside the specialist world of aviation financing, splashed out on 20 Airbus A380 superjumbos worth $8 billion at list prices to anticipate rising demand.

Total orders on day one of the world's largest aerospace event swelled to more than $30 billion in three hours.

But, despite the early flurry, the number of orders this year was expected to be down from the last Paris show in 2011.

Record might not be set, but analysts forecast a strong airshow nonetheless, with demand outstripping supply.

"At the beginning of the year we were expecting to see a year in the range of the production levels -- so they would sell as much as they produce. And since that, before the Paris Air Show we were already, at least for Airbus, close to 60 or 70 percent of that amount so a good incentive for them to revisit their forecast upward," said Damien Lasou, the head of Aerospace and Defence for Accenture.

"Same story for Boeing, you know, revisiting upward. Nothing yet a record year but at least a year where the sales will be significantly above the production," he said.

Most attention at the air show, however, focused on a new generation of mid-sized long-range jets, seen as crucial to the future of both companies and their suppliers.

Boeing said last week it sees a $1 trillion market over the next 20 years for mid-sized, twin-engined passenger jets, a category that includes its carbon-composite 787 Dreamliner.

Days after it surprised the industry by making the first flight of its rival A350 before the show, Airbus will attempt a curtain call on Friday with a fly-by for French President Francois Hollande, on only the plane's third test.

Video Credit: Reuters

Germany's Merkel, Russia's Putin And Canada's Harper Arrive At G8 Summit

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 11:52:08 -0400

German Chancellor Angela Merkel, the Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper landed in Belfast on Monday (June 17) ahead of the Group of Eight summit.

Merkel, Putin and Harper will join the leaders of France, Italy, the U.S., Japan and the host UK at a luxury golf resort just west of Belfast until Tuesday afternoon.

The ongoing conflict in Syria is expected to be high on the agenda after the issue was discussed on Sunday (June 16) between G8 host British Prime Minister David Cameron and Putin in London.

Tax evasion and a possible free trade deal between the European Union and the United States are also expected to be discussed at the two-day summit.

Video Credit: Reuters

FOMC Meeting: NY Manufacturing, Home Builders Top Expectations Ahead Of Bernanke

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 11:40:24 -0400

Wall Street Rallied early in the session Monday after last week’s loss after data showed that manufacturing in the New York region improved and home builders were more optimistic in June.

The New York Fed's "Empire State" general business conditions index rose to 7.84 from minus 1.43 in May, beating analysts' expectations for zero. A reading above zero indicates expansion.

Separate data revealed that June home builder sentiment rose above a key reading for the first time in seven years. The National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo housing-market index rose to 52 in June from 44 in May, the first time the index has reached above 50 since 2006. A reading above 50 signals that builders are generally optimistic about sales trends.

All eyes are on Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke this week as the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meets June 18-19. Investors fear that the central bank may begin scaling back its bond-buying program after Bernanke in May said that the central bank could possibly begin to downsize its program in the next few meetings if the economy sees enough improvement. The two-day Fed meeting will end on Wednesday with a press briefing and economic forecast from Bernanke.

On the economic calendar for Tuesday, consumer price index, core CPI and housing starts are released at 830am Eastern.

Beckham Donates To Foundation For Chinese Children

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 10:11:34 -0400

Retired soccer star David Beckham spent the first day of his trip promoting Chinese football donating a car and a football shirt to a Chinese children’s foundation in Beijing on Monday.

Soon after arriving in Beijing, Beckham spoke outside the Soong Ching Ling Charity Foundation's headquarters about the purpose of this visit to China.

"This time I'm here as an ambassador for the league and an ambassador for children, and I'm here to raise awareness for families and to realize that their children playing this game, being brought up around football, being brought up around the sport is something special, very special in many ways," he said.

At the event, Beckham donated a Jaguar along with several of his own shirts.

On Beckham's second trip to China this year he is also expected to watch games, attend training sessions and take part in other charitable events in Beijing and neighboring cities.

In March, China named the former England captain as its global soccer ambassador to revive the game's image.

In his new role, Beckham is expected to help bring the Chinese Super League (CSL) to the world stage and promote the game in the world's most populous country.

Video Credit: Reuters

All Smiles As Prince Philip Leaves Hospital Unaided

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 09:50:09 -0400

Prince Philip left hospital on Monday after a successful operation on his abdomen. The 92 year old husband of Queen Elizabeth was all smiles as he left the hospital where he spent his recent birthday unaided.

He had spent the past 11 days in treatment and seemed happy to be leaving as he smiled as waved to the people that gathered. Details of his procedure and treatment have been kept private from the public. He has in the past been treated however for bladder problems.

Palace officials have said that Prince Philip will be taking two months off and will resume his public engagements in the fall.

Video Courtesy Of Reuters

Kim And Kanye Welcome Their First Child A Baby Girl

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 09:12:40 -0400

Kim Kardashian and Kanye West gave birth to their first child a baby girl on Saturday. The reality star who is 32 gave birth five weeks earlier than her due date. The celebrity couple has been gracing the covers of magazines since their high profile union when they began dating in April 2012.

Kardashian gave birth to her bundle of joy weighing less than 5 pounds in Los Angeles with her baby daddy, Kanye by her side. Kim’s mom and manager were quick to share the news via twitter, tweeting to Kanye “HAPPY FATHERS DAY”.

Pictures of the baby and her name have yet to be revealed.

Video Courtesy Of Reuters

Cannabis Comes To Wall Street: Marijuana Entrepreneurs Pitch Investors In New York City

Sun, 16 Jun 2013 13:49:22 -0400

Marijuana has only been legalized for recreational use in two states: Colorado and Washington. But that hasn’t stopped the ArcView Investor Network, led by co-founder Steve DeAngelo, from holding six conferences around the U.S. in the past two years where Cannabis entrepreneurs have pitched start-up ideas to large groups of potential investors. Today ArcView is holding its seventh conference on Wall Street in the heart of the financial capital of the world, New York City.

The future of cannabis legislation is unclear and the plant is still illegal in the eyes of the federal government, but according to DeAngelo the risks associated with the industry aren’t keeping investors away.

Thumbnail: Flickr user 'Mathew Knott'

G8 Summit 2013 Controversy: 'Give Ireland Back To The Irish'

Sat, 15 Jun 2013 16:36:59 -0400

Ben Willis, managing director at Albert Fried & Company, weighs in on the annual G8 summit. British Prime Minister David Cameron is hosting the meeting in Northern Ireland June 17-18 as thousands protest in Belfast Saturday against G8 policies.

E3 2013 Wrap Up: Sony's PS4, Microsoft's Xbox One, New Games And More

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 17:00:05 -0400

The Electronic Entertainment Expo, better known as E3, just wrapped up after a slew of flashy presentations full of game trailers, big announcements, and energetic demonstrations.

Each major player in the gaming world had a chance to show off their latest and greatest.

French video game publisher and developer Ubisoft highlighted a multitude of titles.

GAMES

Splinter Cell: Blacklist

Rayman: Legends

Tom Clancy’s The Division

Rocksmith 2014

The Mighty Quest for Epic Loot

The Crew

And Watch Dogs

Just to name a few…

EA focused on fourth-generation consoles, showcasing 11 titles for both PS4 and Xbox One.

They featured…

GAMES

Plants vs. Zombies 2: It’s About Time!

Star Wars: Battlefront

Battlefield 4

And the long awaited Mirror’s Edge 2

EA SPORTS excited the crowd with FIFA 14 and UFC.

Sony announced the price of its latest PlayStation 4 console at $399, which is 100 dollars cheaper than its rival, Microsoft’s Xbox One.

The PS4 rocks a sleek, sharp new design.

Sony pleased fans when it said the new PS4 will run second-hand games and doesn’t require a constant internet connection.

You buy a game. You own it.

PS4 preorders are available now online. But remember, playing online will require a PlayStation Plus account

Sony didn’t give details about original gaming content for the PS4, but did discuss a few new game titles including...

GAMES

Beyond Two Souls

Kill Zone: Shadow Fall

The Order 1886

Knack

Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag

Kingdom Hearts III

Final Fantasy XV

Microsoft announced the first Xbox console in 8 years, the Xbox One, which will go on sale in November and cost $499.

Xbox One preorders are also available online right now.

Microsoft alienated some gamers when it announced restrictions on used games for the Xbox One and said players needed to log onto the internet for authentication.

The original Xbox, which debuted in the U.S. in 2005 for $399, is the best-selling gaming console in the US, but it is on par with the PS3 when you compare sales globally.

E3 games included...

GAMES

Call Of Duty: Ghosts

Destiny

Titanfall

Ryse: Son of Rome

Killer Instinct

Metal Gear Solid V

Project Spark (for the kids)

Dead Rising 3

Halo

Quantum Break

Nintendo’s Wii U, which was launched late last year, is cheaper than the PS4 and Xbox One at $300, but it has experienced disappointing sales.

Nintendo didn’t get as much buzz as Sony and Microsoft at E3 this year but they did announce some exciting new games including…

GAMES

Super Mario 3D World – Wii U

Mario Kart 8 (gravity bending)

Donkey Kong Country Tropical Freeze

Art Academy – Wii U

New Smash Bros. (featuring the exciting introduction of Mega Man)

Yoshi’s New Island – 3DS

Zelda: A Link Between Worlds – 3DS

Sonic Lost Worlds

A fun side note: the people voted on the show floor over the course of the expo and the winner of IGN’s E3 2013 People’s Choice Award went to Polish video game publisher and developer CD Projekt Red’s impressive game The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt.

The gaming competition has intensified over recent years, as Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo fight to gain new fans and keep the old ones, despite an increase in smartphone and mobile gaming, which has threatened the 66 billion dollar video game industry.

Brand new consoles might be just what the doctor ordered, and these companies are giving the people what they want just in time for the holiday season.

Video Credit: Reuters

Prince William Harry, And William Visit Prince Philip In Hospital

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 15:41:02 -0400

It was a Royal visit at London Hospital, when Prince Charles and his sons Harry and William visited Prince Phillip. The Duke Edinburgh who is the husband of Queen Elizabeth is recovering from surgery. He just turned 92 years old on Monday and spent his birthday in hospital.

Officials from Buckingham Palace have said that Philip was making progress and was in good spirits.

The royal visit lasted about 40 minutes and Prince Charles had said that Philip was “much better”.

Video Courtesy OF Reuters

Duecy The Double Faced Kitten Dies At 2 Days Old

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 14:29:41 -0400

Duecy was born in Oregon on Tuesday; the kitten’s owners did a double take before they realized their kitten was born with two heads. Rejected by its mother Duecy was dependent on the family for milk and warmth to stay healthy.

But on Thursday the rare kitten who took the world by storm died in its sleep. Like other two headed animals Duecy battled against the odds, as the double head is a deformity and the animal normally suffers from life threatening complications as a result.

Duecy the little kitty that lived for two days went viral around the world. Her story will live as we continue to be amazed by all that is weird and wonderful in the world of Mother Nature.

Video Courtesy Of Reuters

Sports Bar Deck Collapses In Miami, 24 People Injured

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 13:27:50 -0400

A sports bar in Miami partially collapsed on Thursday injuring 24 people, 2 of which are critical. Dozens of people spilled into the Bay from the deck of Shucker’s Bar and Grill in Miami.

Fire and Rescue Chief Dave Downey commented on the accident:

"Right now we've transported 24 victims from the scene. Two of them (in) serious (condition). We are continuing to do search operations in the area of the deck collapse and working with North Bay Village Police because this will be turned over to them as part of a crime scene,"

Divers and rescue teams are now searching the waters as there are initial suspicions that one person is missing.

Video Courtesy Of Reuters

Week Ahead: Economists Look To FOMC Minutes, CPI, Markit 'Flash' PMI

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 11:35:17 -0400

Stocks fell at the open Friday as investors pulled back following Thursday’s rally that pushed all three major averages by more than 1 percent.

Data Friday showed wholesale prices in the U.S. climbed in May for the first time in three months. The producer-price index rose 0.5 percent after falling 0.7 percent in April, according to a Labor Department report.

Consumer sentiment fell to 82.7 in June, below a near six-year high of 84.5 in May, according to the Thomson Reuters/University of Michigan's preliminary reading. Economists polled by Reuters had forecast a pickup in consumer sentiment to 84.5 in June.

On the economic calendar for next week, the Empire State and Home Builder’s indexes are released Monday. On Tuesday, CPI, Core CPI and housing starts are issued, while on Wednesday the FOMC will release its latest meeting minutes. Thursday Markit “Flash” PMI, existing home sales and the Philly Fed index, along with weekly jobless claims are reported.

The Impressive A350 Takes Flight After 8 Years Of Development

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 10:49:29 -0400

After 8 long years of development Europe proudly presented the newest jet the A350 as it began its maiden flight on Friday. Watching the flight were 10,000 employees and spectators as the passenger took flight over Toulouse.

The first flight will be four hours long and this jet is estimated to be worth $15 billion including the development costs of the past 8 years. Watching the maiden journey was the Airbus Chief Operating Officer for customers John Leary:

"We're going to set new standards not just for comfort, not just for performance, but for environmental friendliness. People living round airports won't even know we're taking off,"

Video Courtesy Of Reuters

Dramatic Flood Rescue: 2 Women And Little Girl Saved From Raging Waters In Iowa

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 09:49:44 -0400

A dramatic rescue has been caught on tape as two women and a little girl were saved from the raging flood waters of Iowa on Wednesday night. Their vehicle has got stuck in Worth County as the three were at risk of drowning.

Rescue workers spent 45 minutes trying to get the three scared passengers out of the sports utility vehicle. The car has veered off the road into a flooded ditch. The two women and the little girl were saved and are reportedly in a good condition with no injuries.

The identities of the two women and little girl had not been reveled

Video Courtesy Of Reuters

Murder-Suicide In Illinois: Husband Kills Wife, Daughters Then Himself

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 08:49:40 -0400

Tragedy struck Illinois on Tuesday night when four people were found dead in their home in Darien: The police have determined that this was a murder-suicide. The shooter was 50 year old David Andrus, who allegedly shot and killed his wife, Jeana first in the family basement. He then went upstairs to shoot and kill his daughters who were 22 and 16.

All four family members were shot in the head. A neighbor has reportedly told the police that she had heard arguing within the family home before the tragic shooting happened. Police will be investigating the matter further as they try and determine the motive for the tragic family murder suicide.

Video Courtesy Of Reuters

NBA Finals Spurs vs. Heat Game 4: Can LeBron James Rebound From Disastrous Game 3?

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 18:59:59 -0400

The San Antonio Spurs will host the Miami Heat on Thursday night in Game Four of the NBA Finals as the no.2 seed in the Western Conference is looking to take a commanding 3 to 1 series lead after dominating in Game Three.

Spurs guard Tony Parker said he will play in Game 4 after his availability was in question because of a mild right hamstring strain. Parker said "I will be ready to go" on Thursday.

Even with Parker’s absence Tuesday night, the Spurs beat Miami 113-77.

“The big three,” Lebron James, Dwane Wade and Chris Bosh, are under pressure to rebound from a disappointing performance in Game Three.

If the Spurs win, they can clinch their fifth NBA championship at home with a victory on Sunday, while a victory for Miami would guarantee a Game Six.

Video Source: Reuters

Video Shows Explosion From Williams Olefins Chemical Plant In Louisiana

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 18:02:47 -0400

A large explosion and fire tore through the Williams Olefins chemical plant in Geismar,Louisiana, on Thursday, causing an unknown number of injuries, and authorities ordered people within two miles (3 km) to remain indoors.

The blast hit at 8:37 a.m. EDT (13:37 GMT) at the plant along the Mississippi River just south of Baton Rouge and about 60 miles (100 km) up river from New Orleans, parent group Williams Cos.said in a statement.

"Emergency shut-down valves have been closed. The unit is isolated," the company said.

Images on the Times-Picayune news website showed a large ball of flame and a thick column of smoke coming from the plant.

NBC News reported 25 injuries, citing Paige Hargrove, executive director of the Louisiana Emergency Response Network.

Six burn victims were taken to hospitals by helicopter, WAFB television reported, citing theIberville Office of Emergency Preparedness. There were no immediate reports of fatalities.

Authorities ordered people within a 2-mile (3-km) radius to remain in their homes, in part because of the smoke, said Lester Kenyon, a spokesman for Ascension Parish. Roads leading to the plant were closed, the company said.

The U.S. Coast Guard said traffic on the Mississippi River remained unaffected.

The plant produces approximately 1.3 billion pounds of ethylene and 90 million pounds of polymer grade propylene, according to the Williams website. These are used in the petrochemical process to make plastics.

Williams operates the plant and holds an 83 percent ownership interest in the Geismar facility, it said.

Shares in Williams Cos. fell as much as 3 percent in early trading after the reports and were down about 1 percent shortly after midday.

With massive equipment operating under intense pressure and high heat, the petrochemical industry is particularly prone to occasional fires and explosions, most of which are quickly brought under control with limited injury or damage.

Southern Louisiana is home to a large share of the country's petrochemical facilities and has seen at least two other blasts in the past two years.

Pressure on the industry to improve safety has increased since a blast at the Texas City refinerykilled 15 people in 2005, among the worst such industrial accidents in decades.

A blast last month at a fertilizer plant in West, Texas, that killed 14 people has also sharpened attention on handling of volatile chemicals.

Video Credit: Reuters

Rupert Murdoch Files For Divorce From Wife Of 14 Years

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 15:46:12 -0400

Rupert Murdoch may be one of the wealthiest men in America but it appears he does not have love, as news has hit that he has filed for divorce from wife of 14 years, Wendi. The reason for the split was said to be because the relationship has ‘irretrievably broken’ as said for the company spokesperson.

Wendi was the third wife to the media tycoon who is News Corp’s chief executive. She was born in China, educated in the U.S and meet Murdoch in 1997. The former couple share two daughters together.

Murdoch is being represented by veteran Manhattan defense attorney Ira Garr, but sources state that the couple has a prenuptial agreement. Video Courtesy Of Reuters

Why Positive Retail Sales Don't Mean U.S. Economy Is Steadily Growing

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 13:47:23 -0400

Keith Bliss, senior vice president and director of sales & marketing at Cuttone & Co., Inc., weighs in on May retail sales and the "wealth effect."

Portrait Of Queen Elizabeth Defaced With Spray Paint At Westminster Abbey

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 12:35:26 -0400

UK Police said they had arrested a man after a portrait of Britain's Queen Elizabeth was defaced with paint at Westminster Abbey on Thursday (June 13).

The painting, by Australian-born London-based artist Ralph Heimans, had been part of a display marking the 60 years since the queen's coronation in 1953.

An Abbey spokesman said a visitor sprayed paint on the portrait presently on display in the Chapter House.

He said the painting will not be on public view until the damage was remedied.

London's Metropolitan Police said security guards had detained a suspect at the scene. Officers arrested the 41-year-old man on suspicion of criminal damage and he has been taken to a central London police station for questioning.

No details about the motive for the attack have emerged but the incident has not been linked to a week-long series of protests against a meeting of G8 leaders which Britain is hosting in Northern Ireland next week.

Last week, the queen and senior members of the royal family attended a service of celebration at the Abbey to mark the diamond anniversary of her coronation.

Video Credit: Reuters

Astronauts Of Shenzhou-10 Spacecraft Enter Tiangong-1 Orbiter

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 11:58:11 -0400

The astronauts of the Shenzhou-10 spacecraft entered space module Tiangong-1 on Thursday afternoon, said the (BACC).

The three astronauts -- Nie Haisheng, Zhang Xiaoguang and Wang Yaping -- opened the hatch of Tiangong-1 at 16:17 on Thursday, after the spacecraft completed an automated docking procedure with the orbiting Tiangong-1 at 13:18.

After a series of preparations, the three astronauts entered the orbital compartment of the Shenzhou-10, taking off their intra-vehicular mobility unit spacesuits and changing into blue-colored jumpsuits.

The Beijing Aerospace Control Center (BACC) ordered them to enter Tiangong-1 after staff on the ground checked the environment of the space module.

With some help they successfully opened the hatch of Tiangong-1, then the three astronauts entered it one by one in a floating state, and waved their hands to staff on the ground through a camera in Tiangong-1.

They will conduct a number of scientific and technical experiments during the flight, in a bid to gather experience for future space station.

The docking procedure was the fifth between Shenzhou-type spacecraft and Tiangong-1.

Previous dockings included two automated operations by the unmanned Shenzhou-8 in 2011 and both an automated and manual docking by the manned Shenzhou-9 in 2012.

The Shenzhou-10 spacecraft, which was launched on Tuesday afternoon from northwest China's Gobi desert, began to approach Tiangong-1 automatically at 10:48 on Thursday and made contact with the space module at 13:11.

Video Credit: CCTV

Struggling To Get A Date? Call The 'Professional Wingman'

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 11:45:44 -0400

Thomas Edwards was maintaining a blog on relationships already when one night he helped a friend score a date in return for free drinks. Realizing he was a pretty good wingman, he put the two together and ‘The Professional Wingman’ was born.

Now, for a premium, you can hire Thomas to come along with you to a bar or other social scene where he’ll serve as your personal wingman, helping you build your self-confidence and get those ever-elusive digits…

We brought Howard along as a guinea pig to see if he could learn something from the professional.

British Woman Dies in Crash at Classic Car Rally

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 11:32:09 -0400

A British woman has died on a Siberian highway during Peking-Paris rally on Wednesday. The crash was caused by a collision with a Russian driver, he as well as a small child also died in the devastating crash. The British woman’s name was Emma Wilkinson, 46, and she was a mother of two children.

Initial reports suggest that the man driving the Volkswagen may have fallen asleep on the road causing his car to cross into the wrong lane.

The rally begun on May 28^th and travelers drove vintage and classic cars through some of the most remote areas of the planet. Wilkinson was described on the website for the Motor Challenge as “a fun loving, lively, and popular member of the rally”.

Video Courtesy Of Reuters