Mother Killed Her Daughter to Keep Boyfriend

34-year-old Penny Boudreau has been sentenced to life in prison for killing her 12-year-old daughter Karissa. Karissa's last words were "Mommy don't" as her mother pinned her to the ground. Penny then strangled her only child to death using twine.

Penny then hauled her lifeless body via car to LaHave River, dumping it there. Penny left Karissa's jeans and Winnie the Pooh underwear pulled down, thinking it may suggest her child had been sexually assaulted if her body were to be discovered.

Penny's boyfriend Vernon Macumber was the apparent motive behind the horrendous act, telling her to "choose her or me." Justice Margaret Stewart told Penny at the hearing "The words, 'Mommy, don't' are there to haunt you for the rest of your life."

More story: Mother Killed Her Daughter to Keep Boyfriend

Failed Nail Bomber Sentenced To Life

Last May, Nicky Reilly a 22 year old Muslim convert, let off a home made nail bomb in the toilettes at Exeter’s Giraffe restaurant, but as luck would have it, instead of him successfully killing dinners he only hurt himself.

The sentencing was due in October last year, but Mr Reilly has been afflicted by Asperger's Syndrome, a form of autism. The signs became evident from the age of nine his Mother revealed to the court and at 16 he attempted suicide.

Reilly said in a note at the bomb scene, "I have not been brainwashed or indoctrinated. I am not insane” and he was doing "what God wants from his mujahideen." He was sentenced to life in prison.

More story: Failed Nail Bomber Sentenced To Life

UN Head on Crime Says Drugs Money Saved Bank

UNODC Executive Director Antonio Maria Costa has told an Austrian newspaper that as the banking crisis became apparent last year the only money available to save many banks was that generated by the illegal narcotics trade.

"In many instances, drug money is currently the only liquid investment capital," he told Profil, adding, "[There were] signs that some banks were rescued in that way."

Costa did not identify however which banks were involved but added that Austria was not one of the main offenders.

More story: UN Head on Crime Says Drugs Money Saved Bank

Google Earth Narcs on Marijuana Growers

Swiss police inadvertently discovered a large marijuana plantation hidden inside a field of corn while using Google Earth to search for the address of two farmers suspected of being part of an alleged drug ring.

Norbert Klossner, who is the head of Zurich police's special narcotics unit, said "It was an interesting chance discovery." Police ended up arresting 16 people during the raid and seized 1.2 US tons of marijuana at the two-acre plantation.

The drug ring is alleged to have sold up to 7.7 US tons of hashish and marijuana between the years of 2004 and 2008. The drug operation is estimated to have raked in up to 10 million francs (8.66 million USD) a year.

More story: Google Earth Narcs on Marijuana Growers

Michael Jackson Sued Over 26-Year-Old Video

Pop star Michael Jackson has been sued by director John Landis for royalties from the 1983 smash-hit music video "Thriller". The lawsuit alleges that Jackson did not, as agreed, share profits from the 14-minute music video.

Landis's lawsuit says the video "continued to generate profits for defendants ... who have wrongfully refused to pay or account for such profits to the plaintiff." It accuses Jackson of "fraudulent, malicious and oppressive conduct."

Landis is the director of "The Blues Brothers" and "An American Werewolf in London".

More story: Michael Jackson Sued Over 26-Year-Old Video

Young Child Killed by Parents in Disturbing Atrocity

Riley Ann Sawyers was 2 years old, and suffered abuses from her 20 year old mother and her 25 year old boyfriend everyday. Torture sessions lasting all day.

There was beatings with thick belts, dunking in freezing cold water, and the final display of disgusting human behavior,she was thrown across the room repeatedly until her skull was fractured and she stopped breathing. The child laid dying alone.

"I love you," was what the young child said during the brutal attack, in order to convince her parents to stop beating her, assistant district attorney Kayla Allen revealed to jurrors. The couple stuffed her in a plastic container and set it to sea.

More story: Young Child Killed by Parents in Disturbing Atrocity

Teen Goes After Parents with Knives Over Mobile Phone Punishment

An enraged 16-year-old teenager attempted to stab her parents with two kitchen knives after they took her cell phone away. The frightened parents ran from their daughter and were forced to lock themselves inside a bedroom until police arrived.

Police say that the teen violently attacked the door of the bedroom that her parents were hiding in. According to Delaware State Police Cpl. Bruce Harris, it took around 10 minutes to convince the girl to put down the large knives.

Investigators say the situation occurred after the girl's father took away her cell phone while she was using it in her bedroom. The father took it away because he suspected she had stolen money from her mother to buy more minutes on a phone card.

More story: Teen Goes After Parents with Knives

Canon Tells Employees To Go Home And Make Babies

According to Japan's Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, Japan's birth rate is currently ranked at 1.34 which is significantly below the necessary birth rate to maintain Japan's population. It is believed that a 12-hour workday is partly to blame.

Keidanren, Japan's largest business group, has pleaded with its 1,300 major international corporate members to start allowing their respective employees to go home early in an attempt to help Japanese families cope with its pressing social problems.

Canon, a member of Keidanren, has stepped up to the plate and will let their employees go home early twice a week in an effort to combat Japan's shrinking population. Canon's 5:30 p.m. "Lights-Out" program will also help to reduce overtime costs.

More story: Canon Tells Employees To Go Home And Make Babies

You're Fat Because of the Obesity Bug

Scientists have now suggested that a new bug is going around that can cause you to gain fat. The name of the virus is AD-36, but they are terming it The Obesity Bug

Conjunctivitis, diarrhea, coughs, and sore throats have been found to be associated with the virus. However it's been found that it also causes fat cells to divide and cause weight gain.

More story: http://www.dailyexpress.co.uk/posts/view/81810

Exterminated: John Scott Martin, the Actor Who Played Lead Dalek in 110 Episodes, Dies

John Scott Martin, the actor who played the lead Dalek between 1964 and 1980 in the hit television series 'Dr Who' has died of unspecified causes. During his 110 episodes he exterminated five Doctor Whos. Martin had been suffering from Parkinson's.

"The Daleks were a great success. They were the first real robotic bad guys and the first screen monsters where you didn't realize there was a person inside," said Martin in an interview before his death.

In addition to his role as a Dalek Martin also featured in 'Little Shop of Horrors' and 'Pink Floyd The Wall'. He is survived by his wife Margaret and daughter Catriona. His wife paid tribute to a fun man who loved people and was loved in return.

More story: Actor Who Played Lead Dalek in 110 Episodes

14-Year-Old Boy Successfully Fools Police, Patrols on the Beat for Five Hours

A 14-year-old boy has caused embarrassment to the Chicago Police Department after he put on a faux police uniform, posed as a police officer, and was put on patrol for five hours before anyone noticed.

Police officials announced an investigation into what they described as a serious breach of security. The boy, who aspires to be a police officer, did not issue any tickets or drive the squad car. He has been charged with impersonating an officer.

He was eventually discovered when someone noticed his uniform lacked one of the stars featured on a regulation police uniform. He had been part of a programme designed to promote policing among youth, which meant he had some formal knowledge.

More story: 14-Year-Old Boy Successfully Fools Police

Walmart Employee Arrested for Giving Friend 99% Discount

Mississippi: 20-year-old Erica Marie Jones has been charged with embezzlement after she allegedly sold $547.50 worth of merchandise to 22-year-old Tiffany Williams for $5.25.

Both women are currently in custody. According to Natchez Police Chief Mike Mullins they may be joined by a third person as another employee is suspected of involvement but is yet to be arrested.

For her $5 Williams was set to walk out with goods including 4x 12-pack drinks, diapers, 4x pants, 7x jeans, a baby crib, scrubs, a large amount of food, a sweat suit, and a picture frame before store security intervened.

More story: Walmart Employee Arrested for Giving Friend 99% Discount

Creator of Spiderman, the Hulk, and X-Men Creates a Gay Superhero

Stan Lee, the man who used to head Marvel Comics and gave the world Spiderman, X-Men, and the Hulk, has created a gay superhero named Thom Creed. He will be a gay high school basketballer who has yet to be revealed superpowers.

"It was only a matter of time before we had our first gay superhero. And if there is one man who can make him a success it is Stan Lee. There's a real buzz among comic book fans," said an industry insider.

In a recent interview Lee said that in the current economic climate the most needed superheros are Foreign Relations Man and Economist Man. He went on to say that he saw some of Mr Fantastic in Barack Obama.

More story: Creator of Spiderman, the Hulk, and X-Men.

Man Slices Off Finger in Court Over Debt

Orico Silva, a Portuguese businessman, decided to cut off one of his fingers with a butcher's knife after being ordered by a judge to sell off part of his farm to pay off his debt despite Silva having enough money to cover the 170,000 euro debt.

A distraught Silva then proceeded to cut off his own index finger using a butcher's knife he had purchased earlier at a market. He had hoped to cover the papers in blood in an attempt to prevent the expropriation order for his land.

"I freaked out when the judge refused my offer to pay the debt and ordered the sale of part of my land," Silva said. "I didn't feel anything, I could even have cut off all my fingers. It was an act of despair." he concluded.

More story: Man Slices Off Finger in Court Over Debt.

SCO Files Bankruptcy

After years of fighting with IBM, Novell, RedHat, and just about everyone else that distributes linux, the Utah based company has filed Chapter 11.

The bankruptcy proceedings come after a November ruling to pay Novell 3.4 million USD, plus 489 USD per day after August 29, 2008.

“It’s clearly a challenge of just making sure that we have sufficient cash to continue our operations and continue to do all we can to service our Unix customers,” Hunsaker said.

More story: SCO Files Bankruptcy.

Woman Arrested and Charged for Not Returning Library Book

Iowa: 39-year-old Shelly Koontz has been arrested and will front court on charges of fifth-degree theft after she failed to return a book she borrowed in April to the public library.

According to court records staff at the library made numerous attempts to make contact with Ms Koontz but were unsuccessful. Several months ago a police officer raised the issue with her at her house.

The book in question is 'The Freedom Writers Diary', a story about a secondary school teacher trying to get her students to write. The book retails for $13.95.

More story: Woman Arrested and Charged for Not Returning Library Book.

Britney Spears's New Single Protested by Parents Group

The Parents Television Council (PTC) has spoken out about Britney Spears's new single "If U Seek Amy" off her comeback album, Circus. The group is warning parents of its explicit lyrics, and urging radio stations not to play it.

PTC president Tim Winter said: There is no misinterpreting the lyrics to this song, and it's certainly not about a girl named Amy." Radio stations have already started circulating the single, which has been edited from the original.

The edited version changes Seek to See, which changes the ambiguous, controversial meaning of the lyric.

Britney Spears's New Single Protested by Parents Group.

Toshiba to Preinstall Solaris

Toshiba has reached an agreement with Sun Microsystems and will be offering an OpenSolaris preinstall option for certain laptops.

Sun's Vice President Jim McHugh commented “Toshiba and Sun are announcing that we’re going to pre-configure and optimize OpenSolaris for certain Toshiba models.”

Toshiba has yet to release any information about pricing or availability other then that they expect to launch in the U.S first.

More story: Toshiba to Preinstall Solaris.

Car Thief Steals Car, Calls Cops on Himself

A Wisconsin man has called the police on himself after he stole and crashed his uncle's car. 21-year-old James W. Crist III lives with his uncle in Cedar Grove and had been drinking heavily when he took the car to go and buy cigarettes.

He drove the car for about half a mile before it crashed and rolled. Because of the nature of his crime (he is also unlicenced), Crist faces a maximum penalty of six years in prison and a fine of US$10,000.

More story: Car Thief Steals Car, Calls Cops on Himself.

China's Porn Crackdown Reaches Mobile Phones

The ongoing crackdown in China on porn and other illicit material has moved on from the Internet to content meant for mobile phones. So far, 1,250 web sites have been shut down and 41 people have been arrested as part of the initial crackdown.

The crackdown was unveiled by the Chinese government earlier this month, and will last until the beginning of February. The first phase of crackdowns focused only on the major search engines, such as Google and Yahoo.

It is being run by the Ministry of Public Security, the State Council Information Office, the State Administration of Radio, Film and Television and the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.

More story: China's Porn Crackdown Reaches Mobile Phones.

Jackie Chan to Play Mr Miyagi in Karate Kid Remake

A deal is reportedly being finalised with martial arts star Jackie Chan to play the role of Miyagi in a remake of the 1984 movie Karate Kid. The role was played by the late Pat Morita in all four Karate Kid movies to date.

The movie will be directed by Harald Zwart, whose most recent movie is Pink Panther 2, which is not yet released. Starring alongside Chan will be Jaden Smith, son of actor/singer Will Smith.

The movie will be shot in Beijing and will combine elements of the original movie with an "exotic Asian locale". Filming is expected to get underway this summer.

More story: Jackie Chan to Play Mr Miyagi in Karate Kid Remake.

Microsoft Charged with Unlawful Competition

After Microsoft faced defeat in the courts of the European Union over Windows Media Player, they are being summoned back. This time they are being charged with unlawful competition for bundling Internet Explorer with Windows.

The European Commission believes that, by including Internet Explorer, Microsoft has unfairly eliminated its competition. Microsoft has stated that it is reviewing the charges.

More story: Microsoft Charged with Unlawful Competition.

Romanian Man Wants to Go to Jail, Rapes a Girl

In the UK, a 35-year-old Romanian immigrant brutally raped a 21-year-old girl and robbed her at a railway station. He did it because he wanted to go to jail for place where he can eat, sleep and learn the English language.

He hoped he can go into the same prison where his brother serves his prison's time for crime. A judge told him on court, he would be deported after his prison's time, but the man does not want to go back to Romania, rather he would stay in jail.

It is likely he will be sentenced to life in April.

More story: Romanian Man Wants to Go to Jail, Rapes a Girl.

Woman Freed From 40 Year's Slave Work

In Austrias federal state of Styria, A 55-years-old woman was freed from slavery at a farm where she was forced to work without salary since she was 15. She had to work from Monday to Sunday.

The food was his only payment in the form of bread and butter and tea. Her nurse said, she was in a state of torn when the woman was first seen by her. Even to watch the TV, it was not allowed to the woman, she had to bear humiliations and violence.

The accused farm owner, a woman, is hiding in her property. According to experts, the slave-holder has to pay 40 years of unpaid work. The freed woman was adopted by a foster family.

More story: Woman Freed From 40 Year's Slave Work.

Tom Cruise: I Always Wanted to Kill Hitler

Tom Cruise has expressed a desire that he always wanted to kill Hitler and how he dreamed of doing just that."I've always wanted to kill Hitler. I hate that guy", he stated. Cruise was not even born when Hitler died.

Cruise made the statement in an interview for his latest film 'Valkyrie', in which he plays a German officer involved in a plot to kill Hitler.

A 'very powerful experience' is what Tom Cruise hopes is portrayed in his performance.

More story: Tom Cruise: I Always Wanted to Kill Hitler.

Safe Haven Sought for Shoe Thrower

Muntadar al-Zaidi, 29, is still being held since throwing his shoe, at the soon to be ex- President Bush, at a news conference in Iraq and saying in Arabic "This is a farewell kiss, you dog”. Throwing a shoe is known to be the biggest insult.

Zaidi has suffered greatly for his out burst, whilst being held in prison staff broke his arm and ribs and caused him to suffer internal bleeding his older brother Dargham reported. Mr Zaidi's family has written to the Swiss foreign ministry.

They hope Switzerland will give him a safe haven. This request was made because “even if many Iraqis support his act, he is at the mercy of all kinds of extremists, his life could become hell in his own country “said Mr Poggia, Zaidi’s lawyer.

Safe Haven Sought for Shoe Thrower.

Malicious Worm is "skyrocketing"

Another Malicious program, known as Conficker, Downadup, or Kido which manifested last October, works though attacking low security networks, memory sticks, and PCs unless the latest protection updates are used, infections are "skyrocketing".

According to Anti-virus firm F-Secure it has infected 8.9m machines and the problem is escalating. Experts advised the best security is Microsoft's MS08-067 patch. The worm creates a HTTP server & changes the System Restore point.

"Right now, we're seeing hundreds of thousands of unique IP addresses connecting to the domains we've registered," F-Secure's Toni Kovunen said in a statement. They have not as yet been able to identify who produced the file.

More story: Malicious Worm is "skyrocketing".

Pirates Go to Dutch Court

Five Somali pirates will be on Dutch court, if Denmark hands over them to Netherland. A Danish support vessel picked them up when they jumped overboard from their pirate ship. A Dutch cargo vessel was attacked by them, but it was foiled.

However, to prosecute the pirates the Dutch court has to use a criminal code which was never used before. The code writes, a captain of a pirate ship can be sentenced to 12 years in prison, while the crewmembers may get 8 years.

It is not clear, the pirates can be sent back to Somalia afer their prison's time, should they indeed be sentenced.

More story: Pirates Go to Dutch Court.

He Woke Up After Three Years in Coma

Ilija Marinovic,57, from Melbourne Australia, has awoken after being in a coma for three years. He fell and hit his head in October 2006, was hopitalised and taken off life support in November of that year.

His first words,'I am better', he uttered to his disbelieving wife Margaret. In the three years he was in the coma his life changed dramatically. He became a grandfather again his daughter turned into an adult and sadly his sister passed away.

His son visited him from Croatia twice and he never knew it. His nephew got married also and his youngest daughter began University. Mr Marinovic will attend rehabilitation and pending assessments will be allowed to go home.

More story: He Woke Up After Three Years in Coma.

Avoid PayPal chargebacks

What are some best practices for avoiding chargebacks?

• Describe the item that you are selling in as much detail as possible and as accurately as possible. Include pictures, measurements (if applicable), and other relevant specifics.
• Make every effort to know your customer and to respond promptly to any customer service requests.
• Keep as much information as you can about the transaction and your customer, including email or other correspondence.
• Publish your return policy in your auction listings or on your website. Also include your return policy in email correspondence with your customer. Please note that certain laws and credit card issuer policies provide that buyers may have chargeback rights for merchandise that is not delivered or is defective, even if your policy indicates that all sales are final and that you do not allow returns.
• Ship to the buyer's address listed on the Transaction Details page and retain proof of delivery that can be tracked online.
• Use this helpful checklist for typical decision points when considering whether or not to accept payment.
• You can find more Best Practices to avoid chargebacks in Security Tips for Sellers, Communication Tips, and Chargeback Guide Part 2: Minimizing Chargebacks.

More info: You can find it here

New Social Network for the Wealthy

Now here’s a social network that I have no chance of joining.  Not because I don’t want to, but because they won’t have me.  Meet Affluence.org, the social network designed for society’s wealthiest to mingle.  Think of it like a virtual black-tie cocktail hour with some random pastry puff thingy.The site is free to use (since these folks certainly couldn’t afford to join) and members must demonstrate a minimum household net worth of $3 million (US) or a minimum annual household income of $300,000 (US).

Now why on earth would the Richie Riches need a social network of their own?
* Interact with other affluent people from around the world
* Receive free access to a dedicated Affluence Concierge
* Attend the most exclusive parties and events in the world
* Receive priority access to the world’s most exclusive nightclubs, hotels, and restaurants
* Find other millionaires, billionaires, and socially elite people to network with.

Get those Black American Express cards ready and get ready to donate to your favorite charities too.  Registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations can register and solicit donations from the Affluence members.  Registered users can also use the social network as a platform to grab exposure for their cause.

Join now: www.affluence.org

Coca Cola Sued for Misleading Claims of it's Vitamin Water

Coca Coal claims that it's Vitamin Water is a 'healthy alternative' to sodas. Not so says the Centre for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI). The detail of their advertising is misleading by using words like 'energy' and 'endurance'.

CSPI also claims that Coca Cola is saying that their drinks may 'reduce the risk of illness and boost health'. CPSI is not happy about the amount of sugar in each bottle of VitaminWater either.

They claim it does nothing to reduce the propensity for obesity and diabetes. CPSI director for litigation Steve Gardner;'VitaminWater is Coke's attempt to dress up soda in a physician's white coat'.

More story: Coca Cola Sued for Misleading Claims of it's Vitamin Water.

Sued for Causing Surgery Death

A surgeon, anesthesiologist and a hospital are getting sued by a couple from Oklahoma who's teen daughter had died from blood loss due to an artery that was mistakenly cut during a surgery to remove her appendix.

Heather Harkness died on September 9th. The lawsuit is against the surgeon, Walter Bell. The teens parents claim that he was negligent, and other patients of his have died, or been injured during his surgeries.

The lawsuit claims that Integris Baptist Medical Center is at fault for letting Walter Bell operate there. A spokeswoman declined to discuss the lawsuit. Bell was unavailable for comment.

More story: Sued for Causing Surgery Death.

HIV Positive Man Jailed for Infecting Others

Michael Neal, 50, has been jailed for eighteen years for trying to infect victims with HIV. He has been convicted twice for rape and eight times for attempted infection of HIV.

Neal had 'conversion parties' in which unprotected sex took place without revealing he had the disease. He continued this unsafe practice up until his arrest despite several warnings from authorities.

"You sought to be your own version of the grim reaper," stated Judge Parsons. He added that 'a clear message needed to be sent to the community." Neal showed no remorse for his crime.

More story: HIV Positive Man Jailed for Infecting Others.

Amazon Loses New York Tax Lawsuit

Amazon.com's challenge of the constitutionality of a New York tax law - which would require Amazon.com and other out-of-state online companies to collect tax from shoppers who live within the state of New York - has ended in defeat.

Amazon's lawsuit argued that the law was unconstitutional, that it violated the commerce clause by obligating out-of-state entities to collect taxes. A New York Supreme Court justice dismissed the lawsuit, saying there was no basis for legal action.

Officials say that nearly $50 million will be gained over the next two years from the new online tax. The chief operating officer of the American Booksellers Association welcomed the change, saying it was time government stopped subsidizing Amazon.

More story: Amazon Loses New York Tax Lawsuit.

Couple in Court for Abusing Each Other Over Wii

Randi Young and her boyfriend Heath Blom are in court after the pair were arrested for abusing each other on Christmas day. Blom, 26, was unhappy with the Wii console Young, 24, gave him for Christmas.

Young was set to leave when Blom pulled her back by her hair, causing her to hit him. Young asked the court yesterday if the Judge would lift the no-contact on the couple, because they had just had a bad Christmas.

The request was denied.

More story: Couple in Court for Abusing Each Other Over Wii.

I Love You, and You, and You, and You.....

Spray and love. No, this is not scratch and sniff 2.0. This is a spray undergoing research that can reportedly make you fall in love.

"The hormone interacts with the reward and reinforcement system driven by the neuro-transmitter dopamine – the same circuitry that drugs such as nicotine, cocaine and heroine act on in humans to produce euphoria and addiction," Professor Larry Young says.

Animal testing is now underway. Next on the agenda, making dogs and cats fall in love...

More story: I Love You, and You, and You, and You.

Firemen Accidently Burn Down Fire Station

A group of North German firefighters have been branded the "world's worst" after their own station burned to the ground. The fire was so large, nearly 250 firemen from other regions were required to extinguish it.

All of their fire trucks were also destroyed in the blaze. Investigators are trying to determine the cause of the accident, which may have been a training accident or an electrical fault.

This marks the second time since 1994 that the station has been gutted by fire. Locals of the area are unimpressed, with one saying, "A fire service that can't even keep its own fire station and engines safe doesn't exactly inspire confidence."

More story: Firemen Accidently Burn Down Fire Station.

Waiters Kill Robber in Japanese Restaurant in Paris

A group of waiters in a restaurant resisted a robbery using kitchen knives against two robbers. The two robbers, both 22, burst into a busy Japanese restaurant in Paris. Pointing a stun gun at a waiter, they demanded cash from the till. Afterward they tried to escape.

Outside the restaurant, one of the robbers was stabbed by a waiter and the other was wrestled to the ground. The stabbed robber died while he was en route to the hospital.

The surviving robber and the Japanese staff are now in police custody.

More story: Waiters Kill Robber in Japanese Restaurant in Paris.

Study Shows Broadband Providers Ripping Off Millions

According to research by telecom regulator Ofcom, which tested broadband speeds to 1,500 homes over the period of a month, customers are attaining less than half of advertised speeds. It also shows rural areas lagging behind urbanites by up to 15%.

Those who pay more for higher speeds is 60%, with some paying for 8 Mbps. It was found that they are only getting an average of 4.3 MBps. “This is yet more evidence that broadband providers are ripping off British consumers,” said Lib Dem Don Foster.

British Telecom says that by 2012, 10 million households could have 40-60Mbps fiber-optic connections if their £1.5 million upgrade goes forward, but said Ofcom must allow high enough prices to make it a worthwhile venture.

More story: Study Shows Broadband Providers Ripping Off Millions.

GEM LifeStyle

Hi, We are offering you to be a part of a team of serious networks on GEM LifeStyle, who are doing this in a professional manner thus helping all team members become successful! Personally I am only 6 people short of becoming the 12th Sapphire associate in the company, so I should think I know what I am doing. Look it over and tell me what you think about GEM LifeStyle. Best regards, GEM LifeStyle 3xwy.gemisland.com

$500,000 Lottery to Aid Sex Abuse Victims Won By Sex Offender

Alaska: A lottery with a $500,000 jackpot raising money to support victims of sexual abuse has been won by 53-year-old Alec Ahsoak, a sex offender convicted of sexual abuse of a minor in 1993 and 2000.

According to lottery organisers Ahsoak told them that he planned to buy a house and give some to charity and some to God. Supporters of the lottery hope that the winner's past will not compromise the fund raiser.

More story: $500,000 Lottery to Aid Sex Abuse Victims Won.

Five Less Somali Pirates

After receiving the $3 million ransom, eight of the 25 pirates who boarded the oil tanker Sirius Star made off in a smaller boat. When they were caught in a storm, only three made it to shore, their share of the ransom, lost.

This information was confirmed by pirate Daud Nure and local resident Jamal Abdulle. Nure knew those involved even though he was not part of the illegal operation. Abdulle lives where the Star was anchored during the two month standoff.

The crude in the Star was valued at $100 million at the time of it's capture. The capture demonstrated the pirate's ability to capture targets of high value, even hundreds of miles from shore.

More story: Five Less Somali Pirates.

Marijuana A Memory Aid?

Long known to impair memory, new research seems to show that ingredients in marijuana; THC and similar compounds, could prevent or reverse Alzheimer's. "We were shocked and surprised that it worked," says Gary Wenk, Ph.D., one of the study's authors.

In the December 2009 issue of Neurobiology of Aging, research showed THC reducing inflammation and improving the memory of rats who were the equivalent age of 65 to 70 year old humans. The name of the compound is WIN-55,212-2.

Research shows young brains grow neurons differently than older brains. In a young brain, the neurons are grown and are connected. When they become too old, pruned. For the elderly with Alzheimer's, it is argued swelling interrupts this process.

More story: Marijuana A Memory Aid?.

84-Year-Old Banned From Driving Until 3000 AD

Australia: 84-year-old Luba Relic has been banned from driving until the year 3000 after being convicted of negligent driving, failing to give particulars and driving without a licence resulting from an accident she had last year.

Relic's licence was originally pulled by the Roads and Traffic Authority for 'medical reasons' but she continued driving up until her accident in September last year.

Relic, who was already banned until 2999 for previous offenses, pled not guilty to the charges. The Manly Court Magistrate fined her $1,000 plus court costs and added a year to her driving ban, taking her to 3000 AD.

More story: 84-Year-Old Banned From Driving Until 3000 AD.

Is Tintin Gay?

Iconic cartoon character, Tintin, celebrates his eightieth birthday today and the question has arisen as to his sexuality yet again. To all who follow Tintin closely it should be as clear as the nose on your face according to Matthew Parris.

Mr Parris,Times journalist, states that overwhelming evidence all points to Tintin being gay. He cites Tintin living in a mansion with a middle aged sailor and the his quirky clothes as more than enough evidence.

Mr Parris is openly gay and another clue to Tintin's sexuality is the lack of Tintin ever talking about his family. Parris believes psychologists will confirm this fact. Another clue is the real lack of interest in females in Tintin's life.

More story: Is Tintin Gay?.

Five Youngsters Shot at High School

In Chicago at a high school, at the end of a basketball match as spectators leaving the school, five young men were hurt, three in a serious condition and two critically injured, wen they were shot. Presumably the attack may have been gang-related.

Two hundred police officers were there looking for suspects. The police spokeswoman said, she does not know whether the victims were students.

More story: Five Youngsters Shot at High School.

Teacher caught out with 15 year old

Oxford Crown Court has heard that a Dyslexia Teacher called Catherine Armstrong had a love affair with her pupil. The child is 15 and cannot be named. He met his teacher via an Internet Advert promising private lessons to help with Dyslexia.

The relationship started and quickly progressed to sex when the boy, who shows signs of Autism and is also incontinent, got his nappy changed by the teacher.
The boy asked the judge to 'be nice to her' when he took to the stand.

The trial has been suspended to next month due to the defendant changing pleas at the last minute.

More story: Teacher caught out with 15 year old.

Princess' Car Stolen

PRINCESS Beatrice’s private car was stolen by an opportunistic thief in London’s West End while she was buying a sandwich, leaving her car unlocked, the key in it. Her police bodyguard failed to check that she had removed her keys and locked her car.

Now the bodyguard faces disciplinary action. Vehicles, used by the Royal Family are equipped with a tracking device, but the princess' car does not have it because it is her own private car.

The police said, yet nobody was arrested, and the car is not found.

More story: Princess' Car Stolen.

Drug Baron Killed in Hospital

A Colombian drug baron, Leonidas Vargas, 60, was shot in a hospital of Madrid. He was transferred to a hospital with lung disease, after he was convicted of drug traffic and sentenced to 19 years in prison in Spain. The man had links to big cartels.

Vargas with fake Venezuelan passport had worked with notorious drug lords. When the man was arrested in Madrid, he possessed 500kg of cocaine in July of 2006. Only a person entered his room, firing four shots, the police said.

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T-shirt Controversy Ends in $240,000 Award

Following an incident in August 2006, Raed Jarrar has recently been awarded $240,000 in compensation because he was asked to cover his T-shirt while boarding a JetBlue flight from JFK Airport in New York to Oakland, CA.

The T-shirt in question was written in Arabic with a message of "We will not be silent." He was told that other passengers felt uncomfortable because the T-shirt was like "wearing a T-shirt at a bank stating, I am a robber."

Jarrar covered the shirt and was allowed to board the plane. A lawyer with the American Civil Liberties Union stated "This case is a victory for free speech and a blow to the discriminatory practice of racial profiling."

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Can't Afford Your Hyundai? Return It For Free!

In a bold move to lure customers, Hyundai Motors of America (HMA) offered on Friday to cover the depreciation value of any car that was leased or financed for the first 12 months for anyone who are unable to make their car payments.

The program is being called the "Hyundai Assurance Program" and is only for customers who have had some misfortune beyond their control. Some examples are becoming disabled, losing driving privileges due to medical reasons or losing one's job.

Joel Ewanick, Vice President of Marketing for HMA said, "We're seeing people who are stuck. For the normal person, this should cover any normal depreciation in the first year." Hyundai sales fell in 2008 to 14%, in December 48% from 46,487 to 24,037.

More story: Can't Afford Your Hyundai? Return It For Free!.

Man Wins Lottery After Accidentally Throwing Away His Ticket

Steven LeClair from Richford, Vermont, has one US$650,000 in the lottery despite the fact that he initially threw away the ticket given to him by his mother. LeClair doesn't usually play the lottery, and threw the ticket out with a gift bag.

His wife heard that the sole winning ticket had been sold in Richford, prompting LeClair to look for the ticket. LeClair works for a car a dealership and was not available for comment.

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Woman Uses Tape to Fool $44 Million Dollar Airport Security System

Japan's $44 million dollar security system, which was installed in 30 airports in 2007 to help improve security and prevent terrorists from entering Japan, has apparently been circumvented by a South Korean woman using tape applied to her fingers.

The South Korean woman, who was deported from Japan in July 2007 after illegally staying in the city of Nagano, Japan, was found once again to be living in the same city in August 2008, prompting the investigation to take place.

She told investigators that she applied the special tape to her fingers which allowed her to circumvent and pass through an airport fingerprint reader. The tape is believed to have been acquired along with a fake passport form a South Korean broker.

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No Win No Fee | Accident Claim Solicitors | Personal Injury Claim | Work Accident Compensation | Whiplash Claim

Excalibur Solicitors specialise in compensation claims arising out of road traffic accidents, industrial injuries & diseases, and slipping and tripping accidents. Please ask for a Free Assessment of your case and we will provide you with advice and pursue your claim on a No Win No Fee basis. Also, if we win the case for you, there's No Fee!

Excalibur Solicitors are a team of solicitors who deal solely on the behalf of their clients on a No Win No Fee basis to ensure they receive the maximum payout obtainable when filing each accident compensation claim that they make. As accident claim specialists we will carry out a free initial assessment of your case over the telephone before advising you on the next steps you should take. Whether you have been the victim of a road traffic accident; a motorcycle accident; a trip or fall; or if you have a work accident claim, it is our duty to ensure that your accident claim covers the full extent of your injury and any damages or losses you have incurred. At Excalibur Solicitors; we also do our best to ensure that your accident claim is dealt with promptly and you are kept well informed on the progress of your accident claim throughout the whole procedure of getting back what you are owed.

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Drunk Briton Drives Into House

A man in Exeter, UK, has been charged with multiple counts after the car he was driving in crashed into his house. The man was charged with criminal damage to a house endangering life and drink-driving after the crash on New Year's Eve.

The property was deemed unsafe by experts who inspected the property after the crash. The man drive into the front window of the house, before his car was embedded by the rubble that fell from the wall at the time of impact.

No one was in the house at the time of the accident.

More story: Drunk Briton Drives Into House.

Bank: We Accidentally Debited Your Account $145 Billion - Sorry

UK: 38-year-old Donald Moffat has been given an apology and $14 for his trouble by Barclay's bank after he found his online statement showed his account to be overdrawn after two withdrawals of $72 billion.

"A technical error caused some customer accounts to be incorrectly debited. The problem was immediately identified and corrected within less than an hour, and all affected customer accounts are now showing correct balances," said the bank.

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John Travolta's 16-Year-Old Son Dead

John Travolta's oldest child has died after falling ill and hitting his head at the family's vacation home in the Bahamas. 16-year-old Jett was rushed via ambulance to a Freeport hospital after being found unconscious in a bathroom by a caretaker.

According to the police statement, Jett was last seen going into the bathroom on Thursday and has been known to have seizures in the past. Police spokeswoman Loretta Mackey said Jett apparently hit his head on the bathtub.

Rand Memorial Hospital, the hospital where Jett was rushed, has released no further information due to privacy concerns. Police are currently planning an autopsy in order to determine the cause of death.

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Windows 7 Beta Torrent Downloads Soar

The upcoming beta release from Microsoft for Windows 7 has seen its availability soar this week on BitTorrent sites. A copy of build 7000 was first spotted last Friday. The latest Windows OS isn't expected to go on sale until late 2009/early 2010.

Ed Bott of ZDNet.com, who has downloaded a pirated copy of it, says the EULA identifies the build as the answer to their promise of supplying a beta early this year. Earlier last month, Microsoft's Web site hinted at a release by January 13.

There is brisk speculation that the announcement may come Jan. 7 when CEO Steve Ballmer goes before the Consumer Electronics Show, but the software giant said in an e-mail that it's "still expected in early 2009."

More story: Windows 7 Beta Torrent Downloads Soar.

Vigilante Ellie Nesler Dies

Ellie Nesler gained international notoriety in 1993, when she shot the man accused of molesting her son in the head while in court.

After serving 3 1/2 years, she was released, however her life was a rollercoaster of highs and lows. In 2002 she was jailed for selling drugs and during her incarceration, her son was sentenced 25 years to life for stomping a neighbor to death.

Nesler died in California at the UC Davis Medical Center of complications from cancer. She missed her grandson's birth by two days, born to her daughter, Becky.

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Girl Raped at Austrian Border

A 16-year-old girl went to work before dawn in Regensburg, Germany, when a man caught her forcing her into the trunk of his car, while threatening her with a knife. He took the girl forcibly across the border to Austria where the man raped her.

She was released at a railway station of Linz, Austria. The girl was able to call the police but they could not locate the car in time. The man even threatened to kill the girl if the police were informed about it.

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