Declaration of 4,000 MPs, including majorities of 30 parliaments

Moreover, a deceleration by over 4,000 MPs from 40 countries across the globe in support of the Iranian Resistance and especially Ashraf residents was unveiled at the gathering. The MPs, including the majority of the European Parliament, the majority of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe and majorities of 28 national parliaments, called for the urgent protection of Ashraf by the UN, U.S. and EU, the immediate lifting of the siege on Ashraf – especially ensuring free access to medical services – and an impartial, comprehensive and independent investigation into the crimes committed on April 8th in Ashraf

In a large and exhilarating gathering held in the Villepinte Auditorium near Paris on Saturday afternoon, 18 June 2011, Iranians called for the immediate protection of Ashraf by the UN with assistance provided by the U.S. and EU. They also condemned any kind of displacement of Ashraf residents inside Iraq, and declared their support for Europe’s peaceful long-term solution for Ashraf. The participants described maintaining the terrorist tag against the People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) by the US State Department as an illegal measure and tantamount to participating in the repression of the Iranian people and Resistance. The attendees called on the U.S. government to comply with last July's verdict of the U.S. Court of Appeals in D.C. and immediately revoke the PMOI's terrorist designation.

Hundreds of prominent politicians and MPs representing a broad range of political views from countries in five continents of the globe also took part in the largest gathering of its kind by Iranian exiles. In addition to expressing their support for the Iranian Resistance and defending Ashraf’s rights, the high-profile dignitaries also called for the recognition of the National Council of Resistance by the international community

Rudolph Giuliani, former New York City Mayor and Presidential Candidate (2008); US Congressman Bob Filner; Rita Sussmouth, former Speaker of the German Parliament (1988-1998); Judge Michael Mukasey, former US Attorney General (2007-2009); Ambassador John Bruton, former Prime Minister of Ireland (1994-1997) and EU ambassador to the US (2004-2005); Jean-Pierre Brard, Member of French National Assembly; Andrew Card, White House Chief of Staff of President George Bush (2001-2006); Tom Ridge, first US Secretary of Homeland Security (2003-2005); Alejo Vidal Quadras, European Parliament Vice President; Geir Haarde, former Prime Minister of Iceland (2006-2009); Lord Corbett of Castle Vale, Head of the Labour Peers group in the House of Lords; Nariman al-Rousan, Member of Jordanian Parliament; Aude de Thuin, author and founder of the Women Forum; Sid Ahmed Ghozali, former Prime Minister of Algeria; Robert Torricelli, former U.S. Senator; Carlo Ciccioli, Member of the Italian Parliament; Jean-Charles Rielle, Member of the Swiss Federal Parliament; and Henry Leclerc, Honorary President of the Human Rights League of France.

A number of French mayors, including Jean-Pierre Béquet, Mayor of Auvers-sur-Oise; Nelly Rolland, Mayor of Villepinte; and Maurice Boscavert, Mayor of Taverny, delivered speeches and declared the support of 5,000 French mayors for the Iranian Resistance.

The ceremony was held on the eve of June 20th, the Day of Martyrs and Political Prisoners in Iran. The master of ceremony for the first part of the event was Congressman Patrick Kennedy, Member of US House of Representatives until 2011. David Amess, Member of British Parliament from the Conservative Party, took over the event for the second part.

While being accompanied by Mrs. Rezaii (the mother of 7 martyrs), Mahin Saremi and a number of French MPs, Mrs. Maryam Rajavi honored the memory of 120,000 martyrs of the Iranian people, who have fallen during the three decade struggle against the clerical dictatorship, including the martyrs of the past two years and those who lost their lives as a result of the recent criminal attack against Ashraf.

Mrs. Mahin Saremi, the wife of PMOI supporter Ali Saremi, also took part in the gathering. Ali Saremi was Iran’s most prominent political prisoner and was hanged last year by the Iranian regime after enduring 24 years of imprisonment and torture. Mrs. Saremi, who herself was arrested and imprisoned several times since the 1980s, was recently condemned to 10 years of imprisonment but managed to flee from the Iranian regime and reach Paris. Akbar, the son of Ali and Mahin Saremi, is among the residents of Ashraf.

I have visited Minster perhaps more than any other village in Kent. This is because the station is an excellent spot from which to snap steam tours as they manoeuvre to take the avoiding chord to Deal and Dover. And each time I go I try to get into St Mary the Virgin and I find the door locked fast.

The week before whilst visiting Monkton, I met one of the wardens who assured me that Minster would be open every Saturday morning for bellringing practice.

Saturday morning came round and so I headed to Minster with my friend Will to snap it, if it was open. Although it appeared to be locked, the door was just stiff and soon gave way to the wonders inside.

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Minster Abbey on the Isle of Thanet was founded in AD 669 by Domneva, niece of King Erconbert of Kent. The enormous parish church, built some distance to the south-west of the abbey, dates from two distinct periods. The nave is Norman, a magnificent piece of twelfth-century arcading with tall cylindrical pillars. The chancel and transepts are thirteenth century, with a three-light east window, each one double shafted inside. This end of the church has a simple stone vaulted ceiling which adds greatly to the grandeur. The glass is by Thomas Willement and dates from 1861. Ewan Christian restored the church in 1863 and added vaulted ceilings to the transepts. They had been intended by the medieval designers, but were never built. There is a set of eighteen fifteenth-century stalls with misericords and an excellent sixteenth-century font and cover.

kentchurches.info/church.asp?p=Minster+in+Thanet

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he history of Minster church is entwined with that of Minster Abbey. The abbey was founded in 670AD, when Ermenburga of Mercia accepted a gift of land from Egbert of Kent as weregild for the murder of her younger brothers at the king's court, so that she could found a nunnery on the Isle of Thanet. According to legend, the boundary of the land granted to Ermenburga was determined by the course her pet deer took when released to wander on its own. With the addition of later grants of land the estates of Minster Abbey encompassed about half of Thanet. The abbey was ransacked by the Danes, and abandoned for a time before it was refounded by the monks of Canterbury, who rebuilt the Saxon timber buildings in stone. Throughout this early part of the abbey's history the monastic church served both the nuns and the townsfolk as a parish church. For a more detailed history of Minster Abbey see our article on the abbey.

There is some confusion over what part of the church is the oldest; the nave dates to 1150, and the chancel may be slightly earlier. The tower is said to be Saxon; it certainly has old stonework and a very odd turret stair, but the material is Caen stone which only truly became popular after the Norman Conquest. So it may not be as old as it appears at first glance. The turret may have simply been a shipping lookout, for in the Middle Ages Minster had a busy port and the Wentsum Channel lapped at the base of the churchyard wall. The tower and the nave walls also contain Roman bricks.

But that's nitpicking; the church is very obviously of ancient origin and even more obviously an impressive example of medieval architecture, with features covering every century since the Norman invasion - and probably before.

We've already mentioned the 12th century nave, which has remained almost unaltered since it was built. The north aisle pillars have capitals decorated with foliage carvings, while in the aisle is a wall monument to Thomas Paramore (d. ). At the north end of the aisle is the Thorne Chapel, with the 13th century tomb of Aedile de Thorne. Look up at the lancet windows and you will see a stained glass depiction of a stag, the symbol of Thanet after the story of Ermenburga's deer.

The chancel is a true highlight; one of the finest of any parish churches in Kent. It is primarily in Early English style, with a much later Victorian east window by Thomas Willement, the “Father of Victorian Stained Glass”.

But the real highlight in the chancel are the wonderful medieval misericords that decorate the choir stalls. The early 15th century stalls feature no fewer than 18 carved misericords. These 'mercy seats' were used to provide a comfortable place for monks to rest during long services. There are 18 misericords here, probably carved in 1410, and they cover an array of subjects including a cook with a ladle, an angel playing a stringed instrument, a serpent eating its own tail, a king, dragons, lions, and other strange beasts. Perhaps the strangest, a certainly the one that tells us most about medieval society, is a depiction of a 'scold's bridle'; a woman with a bit in her mouth, intended to stop her from speaking. Together these make up one of the finest collection of misericords in the south east of England.

There are several interesting bits and bobs in the south aisle, including a cover of a wooden chained Bible in a glass display case. At the west end is a 12th century Norman font near an ancient iron-bound muniment chest, unusually made of fir with a lid of elm.

Spare a glance for the list of vicars by the door. I seldom pay these long lists much attention, but in this case there are several interesting characters among the incumbents at Minster. One was Seth Travis (1547), the first appointment made by the Archbishop of Canterbury after the Dissolution of the Monastery. Richard Clerk (1597) was one of those learned scholars named by James I to hammer out the details of the King James Bible. Then there is Meric Casaubon (1634) who was deposed by Parliament in 1644 for his Royalist sympathies. In 1652 Cromwell asked him to write a history of the war, setting down impartially 'nothing but matters of fact'. He declined. When Charles II came to the throne at the Restoration, Casaubon was reinstated as vicar of Minster.

While Casaubon was suspended during the war, however, Minster was saddled with Richard Culmer, aka 'Blue Dick'. Culmer was a virulent iconoclast, and a bitter enemy of Episcopy. He was best known for destroying monuments and breaking up stained glass at Canterbury Cathedral. So unpopular was his appointment among the townsfolk that he had trouble collecting church tithes. His name is conspicuous by its absence from the list of vicars. And speaking of such lists, Henry Wharton (1688) was the first to popularise the making of such lists of incumbents, an act he thought might impart a sense of continuity to Church of England churches. A later vicar, John Lewis (1708) wrote over a thousand sermons in his time at Minster. On his death he ordered them destroyed, fearing that vicars who followed him might find the temptation of plagiarising his works too great.

www.britainexpress.com/counties/kent/churches/minster.htm

Os mestres da não-ficção: Ariel e Will Durant; Nietzsche; Voltaire; Joseph Campbell e Bertrand Russell. E os brasileiros? Que falta de patriotismo! E mais: politicamente falando, a balança esta inclinada para o lado conservador...

Calma, calma. Os brasileiros aparecerão na lista de ficção (e a arte, a gente sabe, vai mais longe que a ciência e a religião). E eu sou brasileiro, eu sou. Isso é suficiente. Quanto ao conservadorismo político: as fronteiras nunca são linhas retas e alguém duvida que Bertrand Russell não seja capaz de me alertar se eu estiver indo muito à direita? Calma.

_ The masters of nonfiction: Ariel and Will Durant; Nietzsche; Voltaire; Joseph Campbell and Bertrand Russell. What about the Brazilians? What a lack of patriotism! What's more, politically speaking, the balance is tilted to the conservative side...

Easy, easy. Brazilians will appear on the fiction list (and art, we know, goes further than science and religion). And I'm Brazilian, I am. As for political conservatism: borders are never straight lines and does anyone doubt that Bertrand Russell is not able to warn me if I'm going too far to the right? Calm. _

ARIEL E WILL DURANT

A descoberta de Will Durant foi mágica, como o início de muitas histórias de Amor e paixão. Eu simplesmente não sei o momento que aconteceu. O livro estava ali, eu o lia; mas... O momento exato que passei a lê-lo de maneira diferente... O momento me escapa.

Will Durant's discovery was magical, like the beginning of many love and passion stories. I just don't know the moment that happened. The book was there, I read it; But... The exact moment I started reading it differently... The moment escapes me.

"História da Filosofia", de Will Durant, foi publicado em 1928 e é um clássico da divulgação científica. Eu nunca tinha visto um autor assim. Um humor que só era possível por causa de sua imparcialidade e uma imparcielidade que só era possível por causa de sua erudição. E uma prosa tão bonita quanto a mais bonita poesia. Como? Eu queria escrever assim.

Depois disso comprei todos os livros de Will Durant que encontrei em livrarias de livros velhos. E eu os li a com volúpia indecorosa.

_Will Durant's "History of Philosophy",was published in 1928 and is a classic of scientific dissemination. I've never seen an author like that before. A humor that was only possible because of its impartiality and an imparcielity that was only possible because of his erudition. And a prose as beautiful as the most beautiful poetry. As? I wanted to write like this.

After that I bought all the books of Will Durant I found in old book bookstores. And I read them with undecorous voluptuousness. _

NIETZSCHE

Frederico dispensa apresentações. A minha família e minha formação católica quase tornaram inevitável o início desta história de Amor. Meu filósofo favorito. Ser um humano é uma grande responsabilidade e também um grande prazer. Lembremos disso antes de pedir ajuda a Deus ou ajuda à alguma ideia platônica. Deus e Platão não discordam deste lembrete.

_Frederick dispenses with presentations. My family and Catholic background almost made inevitable the beginning of this love story. My favorite philosopher. Being a human is a great responsibility and also a great pleasure. Let us remember that before asking God for help or help to some platonic idea. God and Plato do not disagree with this reminder._

Os aforismos de Nietzsche são mágicos. Tudo é ambíguo. É materialista e espiritual. Poucas palavras, mas observações profundas sobre o humano e o mundo. E há algo de violento em sua erudição e em Amor pelo helenismo.

_Nietzsche's aphorisms are magical. Everything is ambiguous. It's materialistic and spiritual. Few words, but deep observations about the human and the world. And there's something violent about your erudition and love for Hellenism._

Uma pequena nota: friequentemente eu fico muito tempo sem lê-lo. Então quando volto para os braços do meu bigodudo alemão o prazer é tanto, que fico pensando se a abstinência não foi proposital. (risos)

_A little note: I often go a long time without reading it. So when I go back into the arms of my German mustache, the pleasure is so much, I wonder if the abstinence wasn't purposeful. (laughs)_

VOLTAIRE

A culpa é de Will Durant. Integralmente. Não há como não apaixonar-se por Voltaire, depois de ler "História da Filosofia" (Will Durant).

_It's Will Durant's fault. Fully. There's no way not to fall in love with Voltaire after reading the Philosophy Story(Will Durant)._

Coragem, poder, fama, inteligência, humor, criatividade. Ser apenas um homem e ao mesmo tempo resumir em si mesmo todo um século. E que século! Tinha que ser logo o século XVIII? Quem não gostaria de ser Voltaire?

_Courage, power, fame, intelligence, humor, creativity. Be just one man and at the same time sum up in himself a whole century. And what a century! Did it have to be the 18th century soon? Who wouldn't want to be Voltaire?_

JOSEPH CAMPBELL

Não sou ateu por dois motivos: arte e Campbell. Agnosticismo, do ponto de vista técnico, é a posição mais racional. Assim como é mais racional não ver fronteiras: religião, ciência, literatura, folclore, psicanálise, artes plásticas... É tudo a mesma coisa: o humano, o humano. Há a Rede de Indra e a necessária formação humanista. Obrigado, Campbell.

_I'm not an atheist for two reasons: art and Campbell. Agnosticism, from a technical point of view, is the most rational position. Just as it is more rational not to see boundaries: religion, science, literature, folklore, psychoanalysis, fine arts... It's all the same thing: the human, the human. There is the Indra Network and the necessary humanist formation. Thank you, Campbell._

A leitura de "O Herói de Mil Faces" foi uma dos meus momentos mais inesquecíveis. Mesmo quando li Machado de Assis, Kafka, Nietzsche; eu não tinha "a sensação de ler um clássico". Mas nesta obra-prima de Campbell foi diferente: era claro aos meus olhos o quanto este livro tinha marcado o século XX. Não sei explicar... Nos desenhos animados que via na televisão, nos filmes, na postura do ser humano na modernidade... Seria o caso de simplesmente resumir tudo aqui: você não precisa ler "O Herói de Mil Faces", você já leu e não sabe.

_Reading "The Hero of A Thousand Faces" was one of my most unforgettable moments. Even when I read Machado de Assis, Kafka, Nietzsche; I didn't have "the feeling of reading a classic". But in campbell's masterpiece it was different: it was clear in my eyes how much this book had marked the twentieth century. I can't explain... In the cartooni saw on television, in films, in the posture of the human being in modernity... It would be the case to simply summarize everything here: you don't need to read "The Hero of A Thousand Faces", you've read and don't know._

BERTRAND RUSSELL

Agora eu realmente precisaria ser o maior dos prosadores, o maior dos escritores. Porque agora eu vou escrever sobre Bertrand Russell. O meu primeiro Amor intelectual. Como eu não sou o maior dos escritores, vou tentar resumir o importante: leiam e se apaixonem pelo Bertie, por favor. Apenas isso.

Now I really needed to be the biggest of prosators, the greatest of writers. Because now I'm going to write about Bertrand Russell. My first Intellectual Love. Since I'm not the greatest of writers, I'll try to summarize the important thing: read and fall in love with Bertie, please. That's it, that's all.

O cheiro daquelas páginas amareladas e velhas. O toque naquelas páginas amareladas e velhas. A leitura de "Ensaios Céticos". O prazer de querer conhecer um autor. Procurando fotos do Bertrand Russell na internet, como se eu eu fosse uma menina fã de Jonas Brothers! (risos) A familiaridade e afetividade diante de alguém tão distante e ao mesmo tempo tão próximo. Ceticismo. Paixão. Engajamento político. Confirmação que filosofia tem valor. Confirmação que saber escrever é fundamental. Qualquer coisa que escrevo aqui é injusto e inexato. O que possso fazer? Bertrand Russell. Bertrand Russell para você, que agora esta me lendo. Para mim é o Bertie.

_The smell of those yellowish and old pages. Touch those yellowish and old pages. Reading "Skeptical Essays". The pleasure of wanting to meet an author. Looking for pictures of Bertrand Russell on the internet, like I'm a jonas brothers fan girl! (laughs) Familiarity and affection before someone so distant and at the same time so close. Skepticism. Passion. Political engagement. Confirmation that philosophy has value. Confirmation that knowing how to write is critical. Anything I write here is unfair and inaccurate. What can I do? Bertrand Russell. Bertrand Russell to you, who is now reading me. It's Bertie to me._

_ Bing Tradutor. _

At this particular time I have no one

Particular person to grieve for, though there must

Be many, many unknown ones going to dust

Slowly, not remembered for what they have done

Or left undone. For these, then, I will grieve

Being impartial, unable to deceive.

How they lived, or died, is quite unknown,

And, by that fact gives my grief purity--

An important person quite apart from me

Or one obscure who drifted down alone.

Both or all I remember, have a place.

For these I never encountered face to face.

Sentiment will creep in. I cast it out

Wishing to give these classical repose,

No epitaph, no poppy and no rose

From me, and certainly no wish to learn about

The way they lived or died. In earth or fire

They are gone. Simply because they were human, I admire.

- In Memory of Anyone Unknown To Me, by Elizabeth Jennings

“We love Marrakech”

This was our second visit to Marrakech and we decided to stay at the same riad that we stayed in last year, Riad Dar Najat.

The riad is located within a 5 minute walk away from Jemma el Fna square, in a very quite part of the Old Medina of Marrakech. We had the airport transfer arranged for us by the owner Oliver as it seemed like the easiest option for us. On our last visit we found that a lot of the taxi drivers around Marrakech do not speak any English, getting the riad to organise the transfer meant that we could relax and let the driver take us to the riad.

The riad itself has been renovated since our last visit, everything looked perfect. The staff are so friendly at this riad, they all remembered us from last year and it was like seeing old friends. Whatever you need the staff can get it organised for you, if you need any tips on where to go or what to eat, they will be happy to give you impartial advice.

The food at the riad seemed even better than last time, the tagines they cook are made to perfection and we even got the cook to give us some of the spices she used to bring back home.

All of the rooms are ensuite and have everything that you need inside them, complimentry toiletries were provided and the towels were changed daily. The riad was kept spotless and we could not fault anything we experienced on our stay.

Be warned that Marrakech is a very addictive city, we are already planning our third trip and will be booking to stay at Riad Dar Najat again.

NEW YORK, 20 June 2019 - The UN’s top envoy in Afghanistan insisted on the need to start formal negotiations between the Government of Afghanistan and the Taliban to reach a peace agreement.

Tadamichi Yamamoto told the Security Council on Wednesday that since last year’s unprecedented three-day Eid ceasefire, which was not replicated this year, the road to peace has proven arduous, but also said that the foundations laid over the last year remain in place.

But before speaking about that progress, the UN envoy, who is the Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, turned to the 28 September presidential elections.

“The presidential election scheduled for 28 September will be a key moment to reaffirm the legitimacy of Afghanistan’s democratic political structure,” said the envoy, who went on to describe how the electoral management bodies, state institutions, political leaders, candidates and international partners owe it to the citizens of Afghanistan to deliver credible and timely elections, and to accept the outcome.

Yamamoto, head of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), said the decision of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to prioritize the holding of presidential election on 28 September gave much-needed clarity to the electoral calendar, but he cautioned that timelines remain tight.

“Significant operational and technical challenges need to be overcome in order to deliver credible elections as scheduled,” he stressed, noting how the political stakes remain high and underlining how the elections must be contested on what he called a level playing field.

“As my predecessors in this forum have stressed, ahead of previous elections, all candidates must have equal access to state resources,” Yamamoto. “Similarly, government officials must respect the principle of non-interference and refrain from using their position or resources to support a particular candidate.”

Yamamoto reminded all candidates – and their supporters – of the code of conduct they signed when submitting their nomination papers and urge all actors to exercise restraint and to show respect for state institutions, most importantly for the IEC and the Electoral Complaints Commission.

“Afghanistan cannot afford a contentious and protracted post-election crisis which could result in a president with brittle democratic domestic legitimacy,” said Yamamoto. “This would also harm the new president’s ability to bring the Afghan people together in a meaningful and representative peace process.”

Turning back to peace, the UN diplomat described how the minds of the Afghan people and their international partners are more focused than ever on the need to reach a negotiated settlement.

“This momentum must not be lost,” he stressed, noting that talks with the Taliban continue with broad international support, and describing how Afghanistan and some of its international partners are preparing for dialogue that would bring together voices across Afghan society.

“All these efforts need to be directed towards one common objective: to start formal negotiations between the Government of Afghanistan and the Taliban to reach a peace agreement,” he said. “The common message to the Taliban is clear: come to the table and negotiate directly with the Afghan Government.”

Yamamoto called upon those countries with direct contacts and with influence over the Taliban to intensify their efforts towards this goal. “Ultimately,” he said, “there is no substitute for the Afghan people taking ownership and advancing their inclusive dialogue towards a peace process.”

Government and political leaders, he went on to say, must foster consensus and create arrangements to represent the interests of all Afghan people.

“The pursuit of peace is at the forefront of the work by the United Nations in Afghanistan,” he said. “We work on a broad spectrum of initiatives to help create the conditions for peace, ranging from support to Afghan grassroots organizations, dialogue with all parties concerned including the Taliban, to convening discussions on behalf of the international community.”

UNAMA has been working with local communities to support and strengthen their own mediation mechanisms so that they can themselves resolve their conflicts. Yamamoto described those initiatives as a vital counterpart to global and regional efforts, where the UN’s impartiality can play a key role.

“Only an inclusive peace process which involves all those affected by the conflict – including women, youth, victims, business and religious leaders – can lead to sustainable peace,” he said. “Much is at stake: the preservation of gains over the past 18 years; the role of women; questions of accountability; and how to reintegrate those who carried arms.”

The United Nations, Yamamoto said, stands ready to support Afghans as they tackle these fundamental issues. “Afghanistan’s people have the most to win from an end to the conflict,” said Yamamoto. “But they are also the ones who are still losing the most.”

In his briefing to the Security Council, Yamamoto touched on several other pressing issues, including the continuing high numbers of civilian casualties, endemic poverty, internal displacements and “extremely precarious conditions marked by climate change and war.”

In closing, the envoy said that Afghanistan has vast economic potential that remains untapped because of the conflict. He said the state has made progress in anti-corruption and public sector reforms and noted that development partners have started to explore ways to enhance assistance in anticipation of a possible peace deal.

“But this important work can only bear fruit if a settlement is achieved,” he stressed. “The road to peace is still long, but with our united support for Afghanistan’s full ownership of the peace process, I am cautiously optimistic that we are moving in the right direction.”

UN Photo.

Communication de Yolande Boulet :

Bien chers amies et amis !

Avant tout, je voudrais espérer que vous vous portez bien.

Ce matin, je reçois un mail de Michel André, ancien de Bukavu, par lequel il m'annonce le décès de Paul Masson. Comme je ne peux pas faire aussi bel éloge, voici le mail de Michel :

"Chère Yolande,

Les infos paraîtront sans doute dans la DH et peut-être dans LLB."

Par ailleurs, ce matin, j'ai découvert l'annonce de la DH :

"Grand reporter et éditorialiste, il était âgé de 91 ans.

Nous avons appris ce dimanche le décès de l’ancien rédacteur en chef de la DH, Paul Masson. Il était âgé de 91 ans. Il a succombé au coronavirus dans la maison de repos où il se trouvait depuis quelque temps.

Paul Masson était devenu rédacteur en chef de notre journal qui s’appelait alors La Dernière Heure-Les Sports en 1983. Il avait derrière lui une belle carrière de grand reporter qui l’avait amené à travailler dans l’ex- Congo belge. Spécialisé dans l’actualité internationale, il s’était pris d’intérêt pour le continent asiatique et était devenu au fil du temps un fin connaisseur des civilisations orientales.

Avec son épouse Hélène, ils y avaient d’ailleurs adopté leurs enfants.

Venu de la Libre Belgique, Paul Masson avait pris en charge la Dernière Heure à l’été 1983. Un poste qu’il occupa pendant quatre ans avant de céder les rênes fin 1987 à Daniel Van Wylick. Entre-temps, Paul Masson avait entrepris de moderniser le quotidien, une tâche qu’allait parachever son successeur.

Daniel Van Wylick a d’ailleurs réagi hier à l’annonce du décès. “C’est lui qui m’avait fait venir en 1986, d’abord en tant que journaliste politique, puis rapidement comme chef du service politique, dans l’idée que je sois son dauphin à la tête du journal. Humainement, c’était quelqu’un de passionnant. Il avait une forme de générosité qui n’était pas apparente au premier contact mais qui était réelle. C’est quelqu’un qui a beaucoup compté pour moi. Je l’appréciais beaucoup.”

Son départ du poste de rédacteur en chef n’avait pas marqué la retraite de Paul Masson. Il était resté longtemps actif comme éditorialiste tout en rédigeant des articles sur deux de ses passions : les voyages et l’histoire.

À son épouse, ses enfants, ses proches, la DH présente toutes ses condoléances."

La photo qui était jointe à cette annonce, se trouve en pièce attachée que vous pouvez voir ici plus haut.

Que Paul repose en paix ! A son épouse, ses enfants et petits-enfants, qui sont dans la tristesse de la séparation, nous adressons toutes nos pensées émues.

Bakiya muzuri !

Yolande

Seven Chiranjeevis (immortals) in Hinduism :-

There are seven Chiranjeevis as mentioned in Hinduism; Chiranjeevis are those who are believed to be still alive throughout this Kali Yug. Chiranjeevi is a sanskrit word which is a combination of two words “Chiram” which means “long” and “Jeevi” means “lived” beings that will live a very long life, so long that normal humans feel that they live for eternity; they started off as humans, but have received the boon of eternal life.

“Ashwatthaama Balirvyaaso Hanumanshcha Vibheeshanaha, Krupaha Parshuramascha Saptaitey Chiranjivinaha”.

Which means that Aswatthama, King Bali, Ved Vyas, Lord Hanuman, Vibhishan, Krupacharya and Parashuram are death-defying or imperishable personalities.

(1) ASHWATTHAMA, the son of Guru Drona, he was born with a gem in his forehead which gives him power over all living beings lower than humans; it protected him from hunger, thirst and fatigue. Aswatthaman means "the horse-voiced". It is so called because when he was born he cried like a horse.

Ashwatthama killed all the sons of Pandavas (Upa-Pandavas), when he attacked the Pandava camp on the 18th night of the Kurukshetra war during the India’s Greatest Epic Mahabharat. To placate a distraught Draupadi (Panchali), the Pandavas agree to obtain the gem from Ashwatthama's forehead.

Pandavas went searching for Ashwatthama at Ved Vyas's ashram. On seeing the approaching Pandavas, Ashwatthama, as a last resort, used his sacred knowledge of the vedas to devise a Bramashirsha Astra or Bramashtra from a blade of grass. On seeing the Brahmashirsha Astra approaching the Pandavas, Lord Krishna asked Arjun to invoke the same.

On seeing the two powerful Astras heading for a head on cataclysmic collision that would result in the total annihilation of the entire Earth, Ved Vyas stopped these divine weapons from colliding with each other by using his yogic power. He asked both these warriors to withdraw their respective weapons. Arjun could do so, while Ashwatthama didn't have the required knowledge. However, Ashwatthama was capable of redirecting the weapon to a single isolated object in a place where the weapon would detonate harmlessly. But instead, out of rage, he directed the weapon towards the womb of Uttara (Abhimanyu’s wife), carrying the Pandav heir, in an attempt to end the lineage of the Pandavas. The angered Pandavas want to kill Ashwatthama, but Ved Vyas reminded the Pandavas of their own deceit in killing their own guru’s son. Ved Vyas explained that due to the severe sin of killing their guru’s son by unethical means, the Pandavas had suffered such tragedy. Further, Ved Vyas warned that he will curse the Pandavas if they ever tried to kill Ashwatthama, the lone survivor of their Guru's lineage.

Ashwatthama was asked to surrender the gem on his forehead. Enraged, Lord Krishna then cursed Ashwatthama. For 3000 years he will roam in the forests with blood and puss oozing out of his injuries as he cries for death. Since he had no fear of death during war, death will not meet him. He will have neither any hospitality nor any accommodation; he will be in total isolation without any contact of physical communication from mankind and society. The wound caused by the removal of this gem on his forehead will not heal and his body will suffer from a host of incurable diseases forming sores and ulcers.

Even if Ashwatthama fired the Bhrahmastra at Uttaraa's womb, attacking the foetus form of Parikshit, Bhagwan Shri Krishna intervened and revived the stillborn baby, giving Parikshit his name.

(2) KING BALI also called Mahabali is immortalised because even Lord Vishnu had to humble himself as Vaman to conquer him. He stands out for his valour and charity -two great eternal qualities. King Bali knew full well who Vaman was. Yet, he prepared to surrender all he had, to his Lord. So this man of grace is still revered.

Lord Vishnu, seeing the devotion of Mahabali, appeared in his true form and said, “I bless you, Bali. From now on, you will rule Patal Lok forever hence indirectly Bali Raja blessed to be immortal (Chiranjeevi).”

(3) VED VYAS, the great scholar and writer, the composer/author of the India’s Greatest Epic Mahabharat and Srimad Bhagavatam, is another immortal, a shining beacon of erudition and wisdom. A katha-wachak reading from the holy texts is said to ascend the Vyaspeeth- blessed by the immortal Vyas. He comes to represent the continuity of erudition, scholarship and the apotheosis of the writer as the ultimate visionary.

(4) LORD HANUMAN exemplifies selflessness, courage, devotion, energy, strength and righteous conduct. He stands for the potential that is inherent in all of us. He also represents the air, the atmosphere and thus the life-breath -the prana. Devi Sita is believed to have bestowed on him the boon which made Hanuman ever-youthful, energetic and immortal.

When Bhagwan Shri Rama left this world to go back to Vaikuntha (Saket Dham), He asked Hanuman to remain in this world and continue to chant the Ram-Nama so that the world could be benefited by it and that is what Chiranjeevi Lord Hanuman continues to do to this day!

(5) VIBHISHAN had unshakable faith in what he believed. He was a fearless counselor of righteousness even when all around him were given to sycophancy and peer pressure. As a follower of right conduct, Vibhishan survived unscathed while tragedy befell the unrighteous king and his followers.

Vibhishan had a sattvic (pure) mind and a sattvic heart. Once upon a time, along with his brothers Ravan & Kumbhakarna, Vibhishan performed a major Yajna and penance for Lord Brahma. Eventually, Brahma appeared and offered him any boon he wanted. Vibhishan said that the only thing he wanted was to have his mind fixed at the feet of the Lord as pure as lotus leaves (charan kamal) FOREVER. He prayed that he should be given the strength by which he would ALWAYS be at the feet of the God and that he would receive the darshan (holy sight) of Lord Vishnu. This prayer was fulfilled, and he was able to give up all his wealth and family, and join Bhagwan Shri Ram, who was Avatar of Lord Vishnu.

Here, Lord Brahma gave him a boon to be chiranjeevi (immortal).

(6) KRIPACHARYA was an extraordinary teacher. To him, all pupils were equal. A guru like Dronacharya favoured Arjun and sacrificed an equally if not more promising student-he asked Ekalavya for his right thumb. Kripacharya, on the other hand, upheld the highest standards expected of a teacher: He was impartial.

(7) PARASHURAM was master of martial arts. No one could beat him-whether the tools were astras , sastras or divine weapons. He had no temporal ambition. Had he so wished, he would have been the greatest Chakravarti Samrat India had ever known. But he lived a hermit's life. He was also one who never hesitated to admit a mistake.

During Sita's swayamvar, after Bhagwan Shri Ram had broken the divine bow of Lord Shiva, Parashuram asked both Ram & Lakshman for forgiveness. Despite his excellent qualifications, he did not hesitate to apologise in all humility that he had lost his reason in anger. Parashuram symbolises excellence and strength, tempered by humility.

Greater Manchester Police has welcomed another 100 new recruits as police officers.

The new officers were sworn in last night at an Attestation Ceremony, held in the core of the community, at The Oldham Academy North.

Proudly witnessed by friends and family, the new officers each made an oath to uphold the role of constable with fairness, integrity, diligence and impartiality throughout their service.

Joining Chief Constable Ian Hopkins, were magistrates Joan Cooper and Mike Phillips.

The new officers come from a range of backgrounds and bring lots of new skills with them that will assist as they start their new role policing their communities. Many of them are fluent in a second language, which will help give access to our services for all communities in Greater Manchester.

Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: “ Policing our local communities across Greater Manchester with the support of local people is at the heart of policing. It is therefore fitting that their Attestation Ceremony is held in the heart of the community.

“This group of officers is the first since 2009 to be recruited directly from our communities, rather than already having a role within policing. They have all come through a very rigorous recruitment and selection process, but the hard work starts here for them as they train to be a police officer operating in a very complex society.

“I am certain that they will all be great assets to the GMP and the people of Greater Manchester. I hope you will join me in wishing them a successful career.”

Greater Manchester Police and Crime Commissioner, Tony Lloyd added: “It’s great to see a new wave of police officers ready to take to the streets of Greater Manchester. Each brings their own unique strengths, skills and experiences and will be an asset to the communities they serve.

“I’m pleased to see that of the 100 new recruits from local communities; more than a third are from black and minority ethnic backgrounds. These new officers are part of a significant investment and continued commitment to neighbourhood policing, bringing new blood, new ideas and more diversity into the service, which can only bring benefits for the wider community.”

For more information about Policing in Greater Manchester please visit our website. www.gmp.police.uk

Always call 999 in an emergency, such as when a crime is in progress, violence is being used or threatened or where there is danger to life.

To report crime call police on 101 the national non-emergency number.

You can also call anonymously with information about crime to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Crimestoppers is an independent charity who will not want your name, just your information. Your call will not be traced or recorded and you do not have to go to court or give a statement.

Greater Manchester Police has welcomed another 100 new recruits as police officers.

The new officers were sworn in last night at an Attestation Ceremony, held in the core of the community, at The Oldham Academy North.

Proudly witnessed by friends and family, the new officers each made an oath to uphold the role of constable with fairness, integrity, diligence and impartiality throughout their service.

Joining Chief Constable Ian Hopkins, were magistrates Joan Cooper and Mike Phillips.

The new officers come from a range of backgrounds and bring lots of new skills with them that will assist as they start their new role policing their communities. Many of them are fluent in a second language, which will help give access to our services for all communities in Greater Manchester.

Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: “ Policing our local communities across Greater Manchester with the support of local people is at the heart of policing. It is therefore fitting that their Attestation Ceremony is held in the heart of the community.

“This group of officers is the first since 2009 to be recruited directly from our communities, rather than already having a role within policing. They have all come through a very rigorous recruitment and selection process, but the hard work starts here for them as they train to be a police officer operating in a very complex society.

“I am certain that they will all be great assets to the GMP and the people of Greater Manchester. I hope you will join me in wishing them a successful career.”

Greater Manchester Police and Crime Commissioner, Tony Lloyd added: “It’s great to see a new wave of police officers ready to take to the streets of Greater Manchester. Each brings their own unique strengths, skills and experiences and will be an asset to the communities they serve.

“I’m pleased to see that of the 100 new recruits from local communities; more than a third are from black and minority ethnic backgrounds. These new officers are part of a significant investment and continued commitment to neighbourhood policing, bringing new blood, new ideas and more diversity into the service, which can only bring benefits for the wider community.”

For more information about Policing in Greater Manchester please visit our website. www.gmp.police.uk

Always call 999 in an emergency, such as when a crime is in progress, violence is being used or threatened or where there is danger to life.

To report crime call police on 101 the national non-emergency number.

You can also call anonymously with information about crime to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Crimestoppers is an independent charity who will not want your name, just your information. Your call will not be traced or recorded and you do not have to go to court or give a statement.

Powerful Portadown profit from poor performanceby Roger Corbett

A powerful Portadown side gained revenge for their defeat by Bangor in the Junior Cup last season by taking advantage of the home team’s poor performance and deservedly finishing ahead by 24-43.

With a number of changes to the side that did so well against Dromore last week, a young Bangor side got this second round Junior Cup fixture underway. The playing conditions were good, with the breeze blowing across the pitch and not benefiting either side. From the outset, Portadown played the game at a fast pace, and pushed Bangor back into their own half for long periods. Both sides, however, made many unforced errors and as a result promising attacks were halted.

After 10 minutes of play, it was Bangor who got the scoreboard started, when Portadown conceded a penalty for being offside and Mark Thompson converted the kicking opportunity. Portadown then resumed their attacks and it looked like they would score next. However, from a lineout on the Portadown twenty two, the ball was taken by Freddie Black before the rest of the pack formed around him and started to drive for the line. The rolling maul moved slowly forwards and sideways until one final push saw captain Jamie Clegg carried over to score to the right of the Portadown posts. The conversion by Neil Cuthbertson was successful and Bangor were now 10-0 ahead.

Even an impartial observer might have commented that this score was against the run of play, but to Bangor’s credit they took their chances well. Unfortunately, just 5 minutes later Bangor were reduced to 14 men after Black was yellow carded. From the resulting penalty, Portadown kicked for touch, and secured the ball from the lineout. They patiently worked the ball through their forwards until a gap opened up in the Bangor defence, allowing an easy run through to score under the Bangor posts. With the conversion, the score was now 10-7.

With only a few minutes of the first half remaining, Portadown continued to push forward and from a good cross field kick, they took advantage of the reduced Bangor cover and scored in the left hand corner. The tricky kick into the wind was successful, and Portadown were now in front by 10-14. To add to Bangor’s woes, scrum half Danny Diamond had to retire injured with what looks like a broken collar bone, and front row forward Phil Whyte limped off with a bad calf injury – we wish both a full and speedy recovery. Undeterred, Bangor tried to fight back and came very close in the final minute when more good forward play got the ball over the Portadown line, but it wasn’t able to be grounded.

As the teams turned around, Bangor would probably have been the happier with the scoreline, especially given the amount of possession Portadown had enjoyed in the first half. However, over the course of the following 20 odd minutes, and largely as a result of their own mistakes, their task became much harder. It started with another poor Bangor lineout which Portadown won and simply broke through to score in the right hand corner. The kick was good, extending the lead to 10-21. Then Bangor lost the ball in contact in the centre of the pitch, allowing the Portadown backline to quickly move the ball wide to their winger who rounded the Bangor defence to score under the posts.

Finally, from their scrum, Portadown took advantage of some missed tackles to open up a gap and score again under the Bangor posts. The score was now 10-35, and Bangor had a mountain to climb.

If the game looked lost at this point, nobody had obviously told Jamie Clegg. From Mark Thompson’s restart, Clegg ran in pursuit and managed to snatch the ball from the Portadown receiving player. He then had just enough time to pass outside to Neil Cuthbertson who managed to negotiate 3 Portadown defenders to score, and reduce the deficit to 17-35, with 26 minutes gone.

Shortly afterwards, the Portadown hooker was yellow carded. However, instead of capitalising on this advantage, Bangor then conceded another penalty, this time in front of their posts. The Portadown kicker gratefully took the 3 points, making the score 17-38.

It was around this point that it was starting to look like Portadown were paying the price for their furious onslaught in the first half. Bangor sensed the weakness and started to play their best rugby of the game so far. Patient build-ups by the forwards, accompanied by strong runs from the backs, produced the opportunity for full back Davy Charles to dive under his tacklers to score beside the posts. Cuthbertson’s quick kick was good, and the score was now 24-38.

As the final play approached, and the end result no longer in question, yet another lineout mix-up gave Portadown possession again. With the Bangor defence largely flat footed, Portadown cut through and, despite a desperate covering tackle by Charles, touched down for the final score of the game. Although the kick was missed, Portadown’s victory was by an emphatic 24-43 margin.

This young Bangor side can learn much from their older, wiser opponents. While fitness and commitment is not in question, consistency of technique in basic set pieces, and retention of the ball when in contact would need to improve, or at least return to levels seen in earlier games. While the disappointment of an early exit from the Junior Cup cannot be denied, the focus will now be wholly on returning to success in the league, the next fixture being a home meeting with Cooke.

Bangor side: P Whyte (P Dornan), A Jackson, J Harrison, R Meeke, F Black, M Coey, J Clegg (c), C Stewart, D Diamond (P Nicol), M Thompson, M Widdowson, M Aspley, M Weir, N Cuthbertson, D Charles

Subs: P Nicol, P Dornan

Bangor scores: J Clegg (1T), N Cuthbertson (1T), D Charles (1T), M Thompson (1P, 3C)

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Bible Story

"Jesus Heals Ten Men with Leprosy" (Luke 17)

References

"Ten Men" by Gospel Light (2008)

youtu.be/NpbrwehWd7A

"Ten Lepers" by BibleToons

(emphasizes that the leper who said thank you was a Samaritan, as opposed to an Israelite)

youtu.be/PyQvXEgUKUg

Psalm 75 performed by Leo Ravensbergen on a historical organ

youtu.be/XM2IXVX1IYE

J.S. Bach -Toccata & Fugue in D-minor - Stephanuskerk Hasselt performed by Gert van Hoef on organ

youtu.be/PEHGxpRoZQM

Xaver Varnus plays Toccata and Fugue in D minor on the great Sauer Organ of the Berliner Dom

youtu.be/FHNLdHe8uxY

Jim Irons, Landsat Data Continuity Mission project scientist at Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md. speaks during a news conference between NASA and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to highlight the accomplishments of the world's longest-running Earth-observing satellite program, Landsat, at the Newseum, Monday, July 23, 2012, in Washington. In cooperation with the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) and its science agency, USGS, NASA launched the first Landsat satellite July 23, 1972. The resulting 40-year archive of Earth observations from the Landsat fleet forms an impartial, comprehensive, and easily accessed register of human and natural changes on the land. Photo Credit: (NASA/Paul E. Alers)

The female figure of Justice sits on her throne between two pillars. She wears a crown whose main features include three turrets and a square jewel, and she holds the golden scales of justice in her left hand. In her right hand she holds an upright sword.

This figure of Justice does not wear a blindfold, but conveys an impression of strict impartiality and authority nevertheless.

She has a green cape - the colour of Venus - and a red robe - the colour attributed to Mars. Ruled by Venus, this path leads to the sphere of her lover Mars on the Tree of Life (Kaballah), the Tarot path of Justice would be considered the path of karma - a path where the individual encounters the consequences of their actions.

Hebrew path: Lamed

Ruling sign: Libra

Given the developments in Côte d'Ivoire, and in particular in Abidjan, France decided last night to reinforce the French military force Licorne.

For several days, the Licorne force patrols densified in Area 4 of the city, home to many foreigners and French threats of looting conducted by rogue groups.

Since March 31, more than 1,650 citizens, which over half are foreign nationals, were welcomed at a French military camp of Port-Bouet, where life is organized for these nationals, many of whom are waiting to join family and home.

Moreover, on the night of April 2 to 3, two companies and command elements were thrown into Abidjan from pre-positioned forces by military transport aircraft Transall C160 and C130 Hercules.

At the same time, the Licorne force has taken control of the airport Houphët Felix Boigny International Airport in Abidjan.

The impartial forces, UNOCI and Licorne, provide security and air traffic control of the airport which should allow back military and civilian flights.

The Licorne force now has about 1500 soldiers. She had already been reinforced for the first time in late January with the grounding of an operational reserve board, established by the BPC Tonnerre who was taking part in Operation highbush in the Gulf of Guinea.

Côte d’Ivoire

Compte-tenu de l’évolution de la situation en Côte d’Ivoire, et en particulier dans la ville d’Abidjan, la France a décidé la nuit dernière de renforcer la force militaire française Licorne.

Depuis plusieurs jours, la force Licorne a densifié ses patrouilles dans la zone 4 de la ville, où résident de nombreux ressortissants étrangers et français, menacés des pillages conduits par des groupes crapuleux.

Depuis le 31 mars, plus de 1 650 ressortissants, dont plus de la moitié sont des ressortissants étrangers, sont accueillis au camp militaire français de Port-Bouët où la vie s’organise pour ces ressortissants, dont beaucoup sont en famille et attendent de rejoindre leur domicile.

Par ailleurs, dans la nuit du 2 au 3 avril, deux compagnies et des éléments de commandement ont été projetés à Abidjan à partir des forces prépositionnées par des avions de transport militaires C160 Transall et C130 Hercules.

Dans le même temps, la force Licorne a pris le contrôle de l’aéroport Félix Houphët Boigny, l’aéroport international d’Abidjan.

Les forces impartiales, de l’ONUCI et de Licorne, assurent la sécurité et le contrôle aérien de l’aéroport. Ce qui doit permettre d’accueillir à nouveau les vols militaires et civils.

La force Licorne compte aujourd’hui environ 1500 militaires. Elle avait déjà été renforcée une première fois fin janvier avec la mise à terre d’une réserve opérationnelle embarquée, mise en place par le BPC Tonnerre qui participait alors à l’opération Corymbe dans le golfe de Guinée.

Greater Manchester Police has welcomed another 100 new recruits as police officers.

The new officers were sworn in last night at an Attestation Ceremony, held in the core of the community, at The Oldham Academy North.

Proudly witnessed by friends and family, the new officers each made an oath to uphold the role of constable with fairness, integrity, diligence and impartiality throughout their service.

Joining Chief Constable Ian Hopkins, were magistrates Joan Cooper and Mike Phillips.

The new officers come from a range of backgrounds and bring lots of new skills with them that will assist as they start their new role policing their communities. Many of them are fluent in a second language, which will help give access to our services for all communities in Greater Manchester.

Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: “ Policing our local communities across Greater Manchester with the support of local people is at the heart of policing. It is therefore fitting that their Attestation Ceremony is held in the heart of the community.

“This group of officers is the first since 2009 to be recruited directly from our communities, rather than already having a role within policing. They have all come through a very rigorous recruitment and selection process, but the hard work starts here for them as they train to be a police officer operating in a very complex society.

“I am certain that they will all be great assets to the GMP and the people of Greater Manchester. I hope you will join me in wishing them a successful career.”

Greater Manchester Police and Crime Commissioner, Tony Lloyd added: “It’s great to see a new wave of police officers ready to take to the streets of Greater Manchester. Each brings their own unique strengths, skills and experiences and will be an asset to the communities they serve.

“I’m pleased to see that of the 100 new recruits from local communities; more than a third are from black and minority ethnic backgrounds. These new officers are part of a significant investment and continued commitment to neighbourhood policing, bringing new blood, new ideas and more diversity into the service, which can only bring benefits for the wider community.”

For more information about Policing in Greater Manchester please visit our website. www.gmp.police.uk

Always call 999 in an emergency, such as when a crime is in progress, violence is being used or threatened or where there is danger to life.

To report crime call police on 101 the national non-emergency number.

You can also call anonymously with information about crime to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Crimestoppers is an independent charity who will not want your name, just your information. Your call will not be traced or recorded and you do not have to go to court or give a statement.

Monday 3 April 2017, saw 85 new recruits officially welcomed by Greater Manchester Police.

The student officers were sworn in as part of a special ceremony to formally make them police officers.

The Attestation Ceremony which was held at Stockport Town Hall and was an opportunity for family and friends to witness the group make their oath to uphold their role with fairness, integrity, diligence and impartiality throughout their service.

The group of new recruits were affirmed into their roles by the Chief Constable Ian Hopkins. He was joined by magistrates Peter Rogerson and Stephen Paine as well as the Mayor and Mayoress of Stockport, Councillor Chris Gordon and Doctor Margaret Gordon.

The new officers come from a range of backgrounds and bring lots of new skills with them that will assist as they start their new role policing their communities. Many of them are fluent in a second language, which will help give access to our services for all communities in Greater Manchester.

The recruits who are made up from civilian applicants will have to complete a two year probation period, including classroom based learning and one year on active patrol.

During their training they will have the same of level of authority as regular officers, including the power of arrest.

Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable Ian Hopkins, said: “This ceremony like those we have held previously is an important occasion for the police force and our community. We are committed to neighbourhood policing as highlighted in the recent HMIC inspection report. These officers will replace those colleagues who are retiring and will be an asset to the neighbourhood teams they join across the Force.

“This Attestation Ceremony, like those in coming months, is being held locally and this also highlights how GMP endeavours to remain a part of the area it serves. Our new recruits have been through the most rigorous of tests and will have to work hard to truly understand and support our society.

“This group along with those that have been previously attested will be an asset to GMP and I wish them all of the success for the future.”

Tony Lloyd Greater Manchester Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “Congratulations to all our new recruits as they become police officers and take on the responsibility to serve our communities and keep people safe. It fills me with pride to have been able to welcome two waves of new recruits in my last year as Police and Crime Commissioner.

“By maintaining police officer numbers, we have been also been able to maintain the security and safety of the people of Greater Manchester. And, by building a force that reflects our communities, we are able to ensure that everybody feels represented and respected.”

To find out more about Greater Manchester Police please visit our website. www.gmp.police.uk

You should call 101, the national non-emergency number, to report crime and other concerns that do not require an emergency response.

Always call 999 in an emergency, such as when a crime is in progress, violence is being used or threatened or where there is danger to life.

You can also call anonymously with information about crime to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Crimestoppers is an independent charity who will not want your name, just your information. Your call will not be traced or recorded and you do not have to go to court or give a statement.

Declaration of 4,000 MPs, including majorities of 30 parliaments

Moreover, a deceleration by over 4,000 MPs from 40 countries across the globe in support of the Iranian Resistance and especially Ashraf residents was unveiled at the gathering. The MPs, including the majority of the European Parliament, the majority of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe and majorities of 28 national parliaments, called for the urgent protection of Ashraf by the UN, U.S. and EU, the immediate lifting of the siege on Ashraf – especially ensuring free access to medical services – and an impartial, comprehensive and independent investigation into the crimes committed on April 8th in Ashraf

In a large and exhilarating gathering held in the Villepinte Auditorium near Paris on Saturday afternoon, 18 June 2011, Iranians called for the immediate protection of Ashraf by the UN with assistance provided by the U.S. and EU. They also condemned any kind of displacement of Ashraf residents inside Iraq, and declared their support for Europe’s peaceful long-term solution for Ashraf. The participants described maintaining the terrorist tag against the People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) by the US State Department as an illegal measure and tantamount to participating in the repression of the Iranian people and Resistance. The attendees called on the U.S. government to comply with last July's verdict of the U.S. Court of Appeals in D.C. and immediately revoke the PMOI's terrorist designation.

Hundreds of prominent politicians and MPs representing a broad range of political views from countries in five continents of the globe also took part in the largest gathering of its kind by Iranian exiles. In addition to expressing their support for the Iranian Resistance and defending Ashraf’s rights, the high-profile dignitaries also called for the recognition of the National Council of Resistance by the international community

Rudolph Giuliani, former New York City Mayor and Presidential Candidate (2008); US Congressman Bob Filner; Rita Sussmouth, former Speaker of the German Parliament (1988-1998); Judge Michael Mukasey, former US Attorney General (2007-2009); Ambassador John Bruton, former Prime Minister of Ireland (1994-1997) and EU ambassador to the US (2004-2005); Jean-Pierre Brard, Member of French National Assembly; Andrew Card, White House Chief of Staff of President George Bush (2001-2006); Tom Ridge, first US Secretary of Homeland Security (2003-2005); Alejo Vidal Quadras, European Parliament Vice President; Geir Haarde, former Prime Minister of Iceland (2006-2009); Lord Corbett of Castle Vale, Head of the Labour Peers group in the House of Lords; Nariman al-Rousan, Member of Jordanian Parliament; Aude de Thuin, author and founder of the Women Forum; Sid Ahmed Ghozali, former Prime Minister of Algeria; Robert Torricelli, former U.S. Senator; Carlo Ciccioli, Member of the Italian Parliament; Jean-Charles Rielle, Member of the Swiss Federal Parliament; and Henry Leclerc, Honorary President of the Human Rights League of France.

A number of French mayors, including Jean-Pierre Béquet, Mayor of Auvers-sur-Oise; Nelly Rolland, Mayor of Villepinte; and Maurice Boscavert, Mayor of Taverny, delivered speeches and declared the support of 5,000 French mayors for the Iranian Resistance.

The ceremony was held on the eve of June 20th, the Day of Martyrs and Political Prisoners in Iran. The master of ceremony for the first part of the event was Congressman Patrick Kennedy, Member of US House of Representatives until 2011. David Amess, Member of British Parliament from the Conservative Party, took over the event for the second part.

While being accompanied by Mrs. Rezaii (the mother of 7 martyrs), Mahin Saremi and a number of French MPs, Mrs. Maryam Rajavi honored the memory of 120,000 martyrs of the Iranian people, who have fallen during the three decade struggle against the clerical dictatorship, including the martyrs of the past two years and those who lost their lives as a result of the recent criminal attack against Ashraf.

Mrs. Mahin Saremi, the wife of PMOI supporter Ali Saremi, also took part in the gathering. Ali Saremi was Iran’s most prominent political prisoner and was hanged last year by the Iranian regime after enduring 24 years of imprisonment and torture. Mrs. Saremi, who herself was arrested and imprisoned several times since the 1980s, was recently condemned to 10 years of imprisonment but managed to flee from the Iranian regime and reach Paris. Akbar, the son of Ali and Mahin Saremi, is among the residents of Ashraf.

Memorial to John 1704 and Elizabeth Lone 1705 and their eldest son John were the reason for the bitterest dispute in local church history.

Squire John Millicent of Barham Hall inherited the family estates in 1686 at the age of 29 and was the dominant figure in local politics. He led the life of a bachelor country squire with hunting , hard drinking and gambling providing the central focus for his life. He was a die-hard Tory and loyal to the Stuart cause even after the deposition of James ll in 1688. As a Jacobite wanting the restoration of James and his son, the Old Pretender, Millicent presented a local threat to William of Orange and the Whig government.

. But John Millicent’s Tory world collapsed in 1694 when a Gray’s Inn lawyer called John Lone purchased the Pembroke College Rectory lease which gave him control of repairs to the Chancel. By 1698 Lone had replaced Millicent as the County J.P and arranged for him to be stripped of all his County offices and Lone himself had been appointed as Deputy Lieutenant for the County. Lone took over control of the Guildhall in 1697, a bitter blow since the lease had been held by the Millicents for c140 years.

To display his huge wealth and to humiliate Millicent Lone built the Great House, in 1698 and purchased strategic properties including the Coffee House and the Red Lion coaching inn. Lone built his own family pew located to the left of the Chancel arch, as close as possible to the Chancel itself and the Millicent family pew. Lone’s pew could seat his wife Elizabeth and their 8 children whereas Millicents pew only had room for 6.

John Lone unexpectedly died aged 44 years in1700. He was buried under the family seat and a large monument, was erected nearby. Elizabeth was forced to witness the complete rehabilitation of John Millicent who was restored to all his former offices

In his private letters Millicent reveals his true enmity towards John Lone. The day after Lone’s burial he wrote to his friend Oliver le Neve, “ John Lone Esq. is dead; he lay in state for some days and was buried in his own seat as near to mine as possible. I did not know whether he did this to be neighbourly.”

Further misfortune overtook the Lones when Elizabeth died 1702 aged 37 The Lone heir John junior aged 19 , the hostility to the Millicents continued via uncle William Lone. William was determined to restore the Lone family fortunes and wreak his revenge. He was a wealthy London merchant who had a ruthless and vindictive personality. He now secured a 21 year lease of the strategically important Rectory and Guildhall leases. He waited for John Millicent to set off for London in June 1702. William immediately assembled a gang of workmen to “ repair the Chancel” as he was entitled to do under the terms of the Rectory lease.

Instead of making repairs William supervised the construction of a new large family pew inside the Chancel itself, immediately up against the arch of the Millicent Chapel! The ancient wainscoting was removed and a high brick wall built rising to half the height of the Chapel arch. John Lone’s body was “dug up and indecently exposed” before being re-interred under the new pew in the Chancel. Elizabeth was also re-buried next to him. John Millicent returned from London to discover that his view of the altar and pulpit was blocked by this new Chancel wall which, since it lay in the Rectory Chancel, was supposedly beyond the jurisdiction of the Bishop of Ely and the Linton Vicar. To add insult to injury William had placed a large monument on the disputed wall in memory of John and Elizabeth Lone. The inscription read:

"In sure and certain hope of a joyful resurrection hereunder Interred lyeth the body of John Lone Esquire who in his Life time for his great abilities in the law his undeniable

Loyalty and good affection to his King and country was first put into the commission of the peace and afterwards made one of the deputy lieutenants of the county in both which places his equal and impartial distribution of justice gained him the universal good esteem of all who were not enemies to the rightful and lawful King William the third and noe friends to virtue valueing themselves only for that which in itself is not valuable—antiquity Who therefore denied Servius to be worthy of the Roman Crown

tho’ borne of a captive handmaid, unless it were the envious Or who upbraided Marius as an upstart who was called from the Plow to be governor of the Roman City, unless he were the Scirrolous. He departed his life the 10th day of May in the 44th year of his age leaving behind him a sorrowful widow and 8 children and not less lamented by his neighbours and acquaintances".

The venom in this epitaph can easily be seen in the references to his loyalty to William the Third and to those like John Millicent who only valued themselves for the antiquity of their families.

John Millicent went to the Church Courts in 1702 . William and the Lone family still resided at the Great House and William was still so determined to thwart the Squire that he inserted a clause in his Will to provide John’s children with £100 a year to continue the fight through the courts. However, it seems that Squire Millicent won his case because the Lone estate was wound up by Act of Parliament in December 1702 and William was fined £100 for his breach of Church law.

It should come as no surprise that Squire John Millicent rubbed in his victory by building the beautiful Millicent Memorial in his Chapel. His friend, Thomas Sclater of Catley Park , Lord of Great and Little Linton ensured that there would be no further disputes by purchasing the Rectory lease together with the Great House from the Lone Trustees in 1706 for £1500.

Linton historical society

I have visited Minster perhaps more than any other village in Kent. This is because the station is an excellent spot from which to snap steam tours as they manoeuvre to take the avoiding chord to Deal and Dover. And each time I go I try to get into St Mary the Virgin and I find the door locked fast.

The week before whilst visiting Monkton, I met one of the wardens who assured me that Minster would be open every Saturday morning for bellringing practice.

Saturday morning came round and so I headed to Minster with my friend Will to snap it, if it was open. Although it appeared to be locked, the door was just stiff and soon gave way to the wonders inside.

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Minster Abbey on the Isle of Thanet was founded in AD 669 by Domneva, niece of King Erconbert of Kent. The enormous parish church, built some distance to the south-west of the abbey, dates from two distinct periods. The nave is Norman, a magnificent piece of twelfth-century arcading with tall cylindrical pillars. The chancel and transepts are thirteenth century, with a three-light east window, each one double shafted inside. This end of the church has a simple stone vaulted ceiling which adds greatly to the grandeur. The glass is by Thomas Willement and dates from 1861. Ewan Christian restored the church in 1863 and added vaulted ceilings to the transepts. They had been intended by the medieval designers, but were never built. There is a set of eighteen fifteenth-century stalls with misericords and an excellent sixteenth-century font and cover.

kentchurches.info/church.asp?p=Minster+in+Thanet

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he history of Minster church is entwined with that of Minster Abbey. The abbey was founded in 670AD, when Ermenburga of Mercia accepted a gift of land from Egbert of Kent as weregild for the murder of her younger brothers at the king's court, so that she could found a nunnery on the Isle of Thanet. According to legend, the boundary of the land granted to Ermenburga was determined by the course her pet deer took when released to wander on its own. With the addition of later grants of land the estates of Minster Abbey encompassed about half of Thanet. The abbey was ransacked by the Danes, and abandoned for a time before it was refounded by the monks of Canterbury, who rebuilt the Saxon timber buildings in stone. Throughout this early part of the abbey's history the monastic church served both the nuns and the townsfolk as a parish church. For a more detailed history of Minster Abbey see our article on the abbey.

There is some confusion over what part of the church is the oldest; the nave dates to 1150, and the chancel may be slightly earlier. The tower is said to be Saxon; it certainly has old stonework and a very odd turret stair, but the material is Caen stone which only truly became popular after the Norman Conquest. So it may not be as old as it appears at first glance. The turret may have simply been a shipping lookout, for in the Middle Ages Minster had a busy port and the Wentsum Channel lapped at the base of the churchyard wall. The tower and the nave walls also contain Roman bricks.

But that's nitpicking; the church is very obviously of ancient origin and even more obviously an impressive example of medieval architecture, with features covering every century since the Norman invasion - and probably before.

We've already mentioned the 12th century nave, which has remained almost unaltered since it was built. The north aisle pillars have capitals decorated with foliage carvings, while in the aisle is a wall monument to Thomas Paramore (d. ). At the north end of the aisle is the Thorne Chapel, with the 13th century tomb of Aedile de Thorne. Look up at the lancet windows and you will see a stained glass depiction of a stag, the symbol of Thanet after the story of Ermenburga's deer.

The chancel is a true highlight; one of the finest of any parish churches in Kent. It is primarily in Early English style, with a much later Victorian east window by Thomas Willement, the “Father of Victorian Stained Glass”.

But the real highlight in the chancel are the wonderful medieval misericords that decorate the choir stalls. The early 15th century stalls feature no fewer than 18 carved misericords. These 'mercy seats' were used to provide a comfortable place for monks to rest during long services. There are 18 misericords here, probably carved in 1410, and they cover an array of subjects including a cook with a ladle, an angel playing a stringed instrument, a serpent eating its own tail, a king, dragons, lions, and other strange beasts. Perhaps the strangest, a certainly the one that tells us most about medieval society, is a depiction of a 'scold's bridle'; a woman with a bit in her mouth, intended to stop her from speaking. Together these make up one of the finest collection of misericords in the south east of England.

There are several interesting bits and bobs in the south aisle, including a cover of a wooden chained Bible in a glass display case. At the west end is a 12th century Norman font near an ancient iron-bound muniment chest, unusually made of fir with a lid of elm.

Spare a glance for the list of vicars by the door. I seldom pay these long lists much attention, but in this case there are several interesting characters among the incumbents at Minster. One was Seth Travis (1547), the first appointment made by the Archbishop of Canterbury after the Dissolution of the Monastery. Richard Clerk (1597) was one of those learned scholars named by James I to hammer out the details of the King James Bible. Then there is Meric Casaubon (1634) who was deposed by Parliament in 1644 for his Royalist sympathies. In 1652 Cromwell asked him to write a history of the war, setting down impartially 'nothing but matters of fact'. He declined. When Charles II came to the throne at the Restoration, Casaubon was reinstated as vicar of Minster.

While Casaubon was suspended during the war, however, Minster was saddled with Richard Culmer, aka 'Blue Dick'. Culmer was a virulent iconoclast, and a bitter enemy of Episcopy. He was best known for destroying monuments and breaking up stained glass at Canterbury Cathedral. So unpopular was his appointment among the townsfolk that he had trouble collecting church tithes. His name is conspicuous by its absence from the list of vicars. And speaking of such lists, Henry Wharton (1688) was the first to popularise the making of such lists of incumbents, an act he thought might impart a sense of continuity to Church of England churches. A later vicar, John Lewis (1708) wrote over a thousand sermons in his time at Minster. On his death he ordered them destroyed, fearing that vicars who followed him might find the temptation of plagiarising his works too great.

www.britainexpress.com/counties/kent/churches/minster.htm

Here I said something about the way I see myself and the way you see me. You didn't really mean you, the flickr people but much more you, the people who know me out there, in the real world.

"I'm not so sure if I would like to see me through your eyes. I sometimes think it would horrify me."

I think I confused some of you flickr people with it. So I'd like to explain why I wrote that.

Here at flickr I often get told how pretty I was. Fact is: I am not. At least not when other people take pictures of me whilst I don't notice it. I just don't look pretty in my everyday life. That's it.

When I see myself in the mirror and take selfportraits I am beautiful. I am pretty. I don't look strange. But I think I do when I just talk and laugh and work etc.

Or is that just what other people see? I mean, I only see pictures of me talking and laughing and working and strange-looking. I think it really depends on who is taking the picture.

This is what I look like when my father took the picture. This is what I look like when Teresa took the picture. This is what I normally see in the mirror.

In my opinion photography cannot be impartial. Even if it is just a snapshot, nothing artistic, the photographer and his way of viewing people/things has a great influence in what the picture will be like. Does the photographer think the person he photographs is beautiful? Does he like him/her? Does he even know him/her?

So maybe I look so strange on other people's photos of me because they think I am strange. Or is it only because of the angle the picture was taken in? Because of the light? Hmm. I don't know. I don't think I want to know. I think I am fine with the fact that some people think I am strange. What matters for me is that I like myself and what I see in the mirror. But sometimes I'd like to see myself through someone else's eyes. No, better: Through the eyes of someone who likes me and through the eyes of someone who doesn't. That way I could find out if I am right with my theory that you always look different, that the way you look like depends on who is looking at you.

In the last year my way of seeing everything around me changed so much - only because I started photographing. Funny, huh? I see so many more beautiful things now: Beautiful light, beautiful people, beautiful places... I love seeing people who look a little different. Cause interesting looking people make images so fantastic, don't they?

Well then, is it bad beeing strange-looking or does it make you even more interesting?

Please notice that I will delete comments that include big shiny awards and funky glittering group invitations. They look awful and well, I don't want my photos' page to look awful. Oh, and please - When you fave my work, also comment on it so I know why you like it so I can produce more stuff that you like :-)

'Nother thing - I really like getting constructive criticism. But please make sure that it is constructive. Critique that says something negative about something that was meant to look exactly the way it does is not constructive. If you don't like my work - please don't feel the need to leave a comment.

Powerful Portadown profit from poor performanceby Roger Corbett

A powerful Portadown side gained revenge for their defeat by Bangor in the Junior Cup last season by taking advantage of the home team’s poor performance and deservedly finishing ahead by 24-43.

With a number of changes to the side that did so well against Dromore last week, a young Bangor side got this second round Junior Cup fixture underway. The playing conditions were good, with the breeze blowing across the pitch and not benefiting either side. From the outset, Portadown played the game at a fast pace, and pushed Bangor back into their own half for long periods. Both sides, however, made many unforced errors and as a result promising attacks were halted.

After 10 minutes of play, it was Bangor who got the scoreboard started, when Portadown conceded a penalty for being offside and Mark Thompson converted the kicking opportunity. Portadown then resumed their attacks and it looked like they would score next. However, from a lineout on the Portadown twenty two, the ball was taken by Freddie Black before the rest of the pack formed around him and started to drive for the line. The rolling maul moved slowly forwards and sideways until one final push saw captain Jamie Clegg carried over to score to the right of the Portadown posts. The conversion by Neil Cuthbertson was successful and Bangor were now 10-0 ahead.

Even an impartial observer might have commented that this score was against the run of play, but to Bangor’s credit they took their chances well. Unfortunately, just 5 minutes later Bangor were reduced to 14 men after Black was yellow carded. From the resulting penalty, Portadown kicked for touch, and secured the ball from the lineout. They patiently worked the ball through their forwards until a gap opened up in the Bangor defence, allowing an easy run through to score under the Bangor posts. With the conversion, the score was now 10-7.

With only a few minutes of the first half remaining, Portadown continued to push forward and from a good cross field kick, they took advantage of the reduced Bangor cover and scored in the left hand corner. The tricky kick into the wind was successful, and Portadown were now in front by 10-14. To add to Bangor’s woes, scrum half Danny Diamond had to retire injured with what looks like a broken collar bone, and front row forward Phil Whyte limped off with a bad calf injury – we wish both a full and speedy recovery. Undeterred, Bangor tried to fight back and came very close in the final minute when more good forward play got the ball over the Portadown line, but it wasn’t able to be grounded.

As the teams turned around, Bangor would probably have been the happier with the scoreline, especially given the amount of possession Portadown had enjoyed in the first half. However, over the course of the following 20 odd minutes, and largely as a result of their own mistakes, their task became much harder. It started with another poor Bangor lineout which Portadown won and simply broke through to score in the right hand corner. The kick was good, extending the lead to 10-21. Then Bangor lost the ball in contact in the centre of the pitch, allowing the Portadown backline to quickly move the ball wide to their winger who rounded the Bangor defence to score under the posts.

Finally, from their scrum, Portadown took advantage of some missed tackles to open up a gap and score again under the Bangor posts. The score was now 10-35, and Bangor had a mountain to climb.

If the game looked lost at this point, nobody had obviously told Jamie Clegg. From Mark Thompson’s restart, Clegg ran in pursuit and managed to snatch the ball from the Portadown receiving player. He then had just enough time to pass outside to Neil Cuthbertson who managed to negotiate 3 Portadown defenders to score, and reduce the deficit to 17-35, with 26 minutes gone.

Shortly afterwards, the Portadown hooker was yellow carded. However, instead of capitalising on this advantage, Bangor then conceded another penalty, this time in front of their posts. The Portadown kicker gratefully took the 3 points, making the score 17-38.

It was around this point that it was starting to look like Portadown were paying the price for their furious onslaught in the first half. Bangor sensed the weakness and started to play their best rugby of the game so far. Patient build-ups by the forwards, accompanied by strong runs from the backs, produced the opportunity for full back Davy Charles to dive under his tacklers to score beside the posts. Cuthbertson’s quick kick was good, and the score was now 24-38.

As the final play approached, and the end result no longer in question, yet another lineout mix-up gave Portadown possession again. With the Bangor defence largely flat footed, Portadown cut through and, despite a desperate covering tackle by Charles, touched down for the final score of the game. Although the kick was missed, Portadown’s victory was by an emphatic 24-43 margin.

This young Bangor side can learn much from their older, wiser opponents. While fitness and commitment is not in question, consistency of technique in basic set pieces, and retention of the ball when in contact would need to improve, or at least return to levels seen in earlier games. While the disappointment of an early exit from the Junior Cup cannot be denied, the focus will now be wholly on returning to success in the league, the next fixture being a home meeting with Cooke.

Bangor side: P Whyte (P Dornan), A Jackson, J Harrison, R Meeke, F Black, M Coey, J Clegg (c), C Stewart, D Diamond (P Nicol), M Thompson, M Widdowson, M Aspley, M Weir, N Cuthbertson, D Charles

Subs: P Nicol, P Dornan

Bangor scores: J Clegg (1T), N Cuthbertson (1T), D Charles (1T), M Thompson (1P, 3C)

UNMISS aviation assets transport SPLM/A-IO returning to Juba from Pagak via Malakal.

UNMISS will continue to support the implementation of the Peace Agreement in an impartial manner and provide logistical support with the available resource capacities of the Mission.

A hail and farewell ceremony was held for Lt. Col. Joseph O. Gagnon IV, inspector general, New Jersey Army National Guard, at the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, Lawrenceville, N.J., Feb. 22, 2022. During the ceremony, Brig. Gen. Lisa J. Hou, D.O., The Adjutant General of New Jersey, presented Gagnon the Meritorious Service Medal and the New Jersey Global War on Terrorism Medal. The inspector general's office conducts impartial inspections, investigations, and training in order to provide advice and oversight to commanders. (New Jersey National Guard photo by Mark C. Olsen)

Roger Auch, a research geographer at the EROS Center in Sioux Falls, S.D., speaks during a news conference between NASA and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to highlight the accomplishments of the world's longest-running Earth-observing satellite program, Landsat, at the Newseum, Monday, July 23, 2012, in Washington. In cooperation with the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) and its science agency, USGS, NASA launched the first Landsat satellite July 23, 1972. The resulting 40-year archive of Earth observations from the Landsat fleet forms an impartial, comprehensive, and easily accessed register of human and natural changes on the land. Photo Credit: (NASA/Paul E. Alers)

Monday 3 April 2017, saw 85 new recruits officially welcomed by Greater Manchester Police.

The student officers were sworn in as part of a special ceremony to formally make them police officers.

The Attestation Ceremony which was held at Stockport Town Hall and was an opportunity for family and friends to witness the group make their oath to uphold their role with fairness, integrity, diligence and impartiality throughout their service.

The group of new recruits were affirmed into their roles by the Chief Constable Ian Hopkins. He was joined by magistrates Peter Rogerson and Stephen Paine as well as the Mayor and Mayoress of Stockport, Councillor Chris Gordon and Doctor Margaret Gordon.

The new officers come from a range of backgrounds and bring lots of new skills with them that will assist as they start their new role policing their communities. Many of them are fluent in a second language, which will help give access to our services for all communities in Greater Manchester.

The recruits who are made up from civilian applicants will have to complete a two year probation period, including classroom based learning and one year on active patrol.

During their training they will have the same of level of authority as regular officers, including the power of arrest.

Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable Ian Hopkins, said: “This ceremony like those we have held previously is an important occasion for the police force and our community. We are committed to neighbourhood policing as highlighted in the recent HMIC inspection report. These officers will replace those colleagues who are retiring and will be an asset to the neighbourhood teams they join across the Force.

“This Attestation Ceremony, like those in coming months, is being held locally and this also highlights how GMP endeavours to remain a part of the area it serves. Our new recruits have been through the most rigorous of tests and will have to work hard to truly understand and support our society.

“This group along with those that have been previously attested will be an asset to GMP and I wish them all of the success for the future.”

Tony Lloyd Greater Manchester Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “Congratulations to all our new recruits as they become police officers and take on the responsibility to serve our communities and keep people safe. It fills me with pride to have been able to welcome two waves of new recruits in my last year as Police and Crime Commissioner.

“By maintaining police officer numbers, we have been also been able to maintain the security and safety of the people of Greater Manchester. And, by building a force that reflects our communities, we are able to ensure that everybody feels represented and respected.”

To find out more about Greater Manchester Police please visit our website. www.gmp.police.uk

You should call 101, the national non-emergency number, to report crime and other concerns that do not require an emergency response.

Always call 999 in an emergency, such as when a crime is in progress, violence is being used or threatened or where there is danger to life.

You can also call anonymously with information about crime to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Crimestoppers is an independent charity who will not want your name, just your information. Your call will not be traced or recorded and you do not have to go to court or give a statement.

Declaration of 4,000 MPs, including majorities of 30 parliaments

Moreover, a deceleration by over 4,000 MPs from 40 countries across the globe in support of the Iranian Resistance and especially Ashraf residents was unveiled at the gathering. The MPs, including the majority of the European Parliament, the majority of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe and majorities of 28 national parliaments, called for the urgent protection of Ashraf by the UN, U.S. and EU, the immediate lifting of the siege on Ashraf – especially ensuring free access to medical services – and an impartial, comprehensive and independent investigation into the crimes committed on April 8th in Ashraf

In a large and exhilarating gathering held in the Villepinte Auditorium near Paris on Saturday afternoon, 18 June 2011, Iranians called for the immediate protection of Ashraf by the UN with assistance provided by the U.S. and EU. They also condemned any kind of displacement of Ashraf residents inside Iraq, and declared their support for Europe’s peaceful long-term solution for Ashraf. The participants described maintaining the terrorist tag against the People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) by the US State Department as an illegal measure and tantamount to participating in the repression of the Iranian people and Resistance. The attendees called on the U.S. government to comply with last July's verdict of the U.S. Court of Appeals in D.C. and immediately revoke the PMOI's terrorist designation.

Hundreds of prominent politicians and MPs representing a broad range of political views from countries in five continents of the globe also took part in the largest gathering of its kind by Iranian exiles. In addition to expressing their support for the Iranian Resistance and defending Ashraf’s rights, the high-profile dignitaries also called for the recognition of the National Council of Resistance by the international community

Rudolph Giuliani, former New York City Mayor and Presidential Candidate (2008); US Congressman Bob Filner; Rita Sussmouth, former Speaker of the German Parliament (1988-1998); Judge Michael Mukasey, former US Attorney General (2007-2009); Ambassador John Bruton, former Prime Minister of Ireland (1994-1997) and EU ambassador to the US (2004-2005); Jean-Pierre Brard, Member of French National Assembly; Andrew Card, White House Chief of Staff of President George Bush (2001-2006); Tom Ridge, first US Secretary of Homeland Security (2003-2005); Alejo Vidal Quadras, European Parliament Vice President; Geir Haarde, former Prime Minister of Iceland (2006-2009); Lord Corbett of Castle Vale, Head of the Labour Peers group in the House of Lords; Nariman al-Rousan, Member of Jordanian Parliament; Aude de Thuin, author and founder of the Women Forum; Sid Ahmed Ghozali, former Prime Minister of Algeria; Robert Torricelli, former U.S. Senator; Carlo Ciccioli, Member of the Italian Parliament; Jean-Charles Rielle, Member of the Swiss Federal Parliament; and Henry Leclerc, Honorary President of the Human Rights League of France.

A number of French mayors, including Jean-Pierre Béquet, Mayor of Auvers-sur-Oise; Nelly Rolland, Mayor of Villepinte; and Maurice Boscavert, Mayor of Taverny, delivered speeches and declared the support of 5,000 French mayors for the Iranian Resistance.

The ceremony was held on the eve of June 20th, the Day of Martyrs and Political Prisoners in Iran. The master of ceremony for the first part of the event was Congressman Patrick Kennedy, Member of US House of Representatives until 2011. David Amess, Member of British Parliament from the Conservative Party, took over the event for the second part.

While being accompanied by Mrs. Rezaii (the mother of 7 martyrs), Mahin Saremi and a number of French MPs, Mrs. Maryam Rajavi honored the memory of 120,000 martyrs of the Iranian people, who have fallen during the three decade struggle against the clerical dictatorship, including the martyrs of the past two years and those who lost their lives as a result of the recent criminal attack against Ashraf.

Mrs. Mahin Saremi, the wife of PMOI supporter Ali Saremi, also took part in the gathering. Ali Saremi was Iran’s most prominent political prisoner and was hanged last year by the Iranian regime after enduring 24 years of imprisonment and torture. Mrs. Saremi, who herself was arrested and imprisoned several times since the 1980s, was recently condemned to 10 years of imprisonment but managed to flee from the Iranian regime and reach Paris. Akbar, the son of Ali and Mahin Saremi, is among the residents of Ashraf.

Declaration of 4,000 MPs, including majorities of 30 parliaments

Moreover, a deceleration by over 4,000 MPs from 40 countries across the globe in support of the Iranian Resistance and especially Ashraf residents was unveiled at the gathering. The MPs, including the majority of the European Parliament, the majority of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe and majorities of 28 national parliaments, called for the urgent protection of Ashraf by the UN, U.S. and EU, the immediate lifting of the siege on Ashraf – especially ensuring free access to medical services – and an impartial, comprehensive and independent investigation into the crimes committed on April 8th in Ashraf

In a large and exhilarating gathering held in the Villepinte Auditorium near Paris on Saturday afternoon, 18 June 2011, Iranians called for the immediate protection of Ashraf by the UN with assistance provided by the U.S. and EU. They also condemned any kind of displacement of Ashraf residents inside Iraq, and declared their support for Europe’s peaceful long-term solution for Ashraf. The participants described maintaining the terrorist tag against the People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) by the US State Department as an illegal measure and tantamount to participating in the repression of the Iranian people and Resistance. The attendees called on the U.S. government to comply with last July's verdict of the U.S. Court of Appeals in D.C. and immediately revoke the PMOI's terrorist designation.

Hundreds of prominent politicians and MPs representing a broad range of political views from countries in five continents of the globe also took part in the largest gathering of its kind by Iranian exiles. In addition to expressing their support for the Iranian Resistance and defending Ashraf’s rights, the high-profile dignitaries also called for the recognition of the National Council of Resistance by the international community

Rudolph Giuliani, former New York City Mayor and Presidential Candidate (2008); US Congressman Bob Filner; Rita Sussmouth, former Speaker of the German Parliament (1988-1998); Judge Michael Mukasey, former US Attorney General (2007-2009); Ambassador John Bruton, former Prime Minister of Ireland (1994-1997) and EU ambassador to the US (2004-2005); Jean-Pierre Brard, Member of French National Assembly; Andrew Card, White House Chief of Staff of President George Bush (2001-2006); Tom Ridge, first US Secretary of Homeland Security (2003-2005); Alejo Vidal Quadras, European Parliament Vice President; Geir Haarde, former Prime Minister of Iceland (2006-2009); Lord Corbett of Castle Vale, Head of the Labour Peers group in the House of Lords; Nariman al-Rousan, Member of Jordanian Parliament; Aude de Thuin, author and founder of the Women Forum; Sid Ahmed Ghozali, former Prime Minister of Algeria; Robert Torricelli, former U.S. Senator; Carlo Ciccioli, Member of the Italian Parliament; Jean-Charles Rielle, Member of the Swiss Federal Parliament; and Henry Leclerc, Honorary President of the Human Rights League of France.

A number of French mayors, including Jean-Pierre Béquet, Mayor of Auvers-sur-Oise; Nelly Rolland, Mayor of Villepinte; and Maurice Boscavert, Mayor of Taverny, delivered speeches and declared the support of 5,000 French mayors for the Iranian Resistance.

The ceremony was held on the eve of June 20th, the Day of Martyrs and Political Prisoners in Iran. The master of ceremony for the first part of the event was Congressman Patrick Kennedy, Member of US House of Representatives until 2011. David Amess, Member of British Parliament from the Conservative Party, took over the event for the second part.

While being accompanied by Mrs. Rezaii (the mother of 7 martyrs), Mahin Saremi and a number of French MPs, Mrs. Maryam Rajavi honored the memory of 120,000 martyrs of the Iranian people, who have fallen during the three decade struggle against the clerical dictatorship, including the martyrs of the past two years and those who lost their lives as a result of the recent criminal attack against Ashraf.

Mrs. Mahin Saremi, the wife of PMOI supporter Ali Saremi, also took part in the gathering. Ali Saremi was Iran’s most prominent political prisoner and was hanged last year by the Iranian regime after enduring 24 years of imprisonment and torture. Mrs. Saremi, who herself was arrested and imprisoned several times since the 1980s, was recently condemned to 10 years of imprisonment but managed to flee from the Iranian regime and reach Paris. Akbar, the son of Ali and Mahin Saremi, is among the residents of Ashraf.

KABUL, 25 July 2016 - A UN report on Afghanistan published Monday shows a record number of civilian casualties since counting began in 2009, with 5,166 civilians recorded killed or maimed in just the first six months of this year, of whom almost one-third were children. The total civilian casualty figure recorded by the UN between 1 January 2009 and 30 June 2016 has risen to 63,934, including 22,941 deaths and 40,993 injured.

Between January and June this year, the Human Rights team of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) documented 1,601 civilian deaths and 3,565 injured civilians. This represents an increase of four percent in the total number of casualties compared to the first six months of 2015 – and is the highest half-year total since 2009.

This year’s casualties include 1,509 children (388 dead and 1,121 injured) – a figure the UN Human Rights Chief described as “alarming and shameful,” particularly as it represents the highest numbers of children killed or wounded in a six-month period since counting began in 2009.

There were also 507 women casualties (130 killed and 377 injured). The figures are conservative – almost certainly underestimates – given the strict methodology employed in their documentation and in determining the civilian status of those affected.

The Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Afghanistan and head of UNAMA Tadamichi Yamamoto stressed that the report must serve as a call to action by parties to the conflict “to do all they can to spare civilians from the horrors of war.”

“Every single casualty documented in this report – people killed while praying, working, studying, fetching water, recovering in hospitals – every civilian casualty represents a failure of commitment and should be a call to action for parties to the conflict to take meaningful, concrete steps to reduce civilians’ suffering and increase protection,” Yamamoto said. “Platitudes not backed by meaningful action ring hollow over time. History and the collective memory of the Afghan people will judge leaders of all parties to this conflict by their actual conduct.”

“The testimony of victims and their families brings into agonizing focus the tragedy of each one of the 63,934 people killed or maimed by this protracted conflict since 2009,” said UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein.

“The family that lost a breadwinner, forcing the children to leave school and struggle to make ends meet; the driver who lost his limbs, depriving him of his livelihood; the man who went to the bazaar to shop for his children only to return home to find them dead; the broken back and leg that has never been treated because the family cannot afford the cost of treatment; the parents who collected their son’s remains in a plastic bag… In just the past six months, there have been at least 5,166 such stories – of which one-third involve the killing or maiming of children, which is particularly alarming and shameful.”

“The violations laid bare in this report set in motion a cascade of potential human rights abuses that stretch from Afghanistan to the Mediterranean and beyond, as so many Afghans are driven to seek refuge abroad, taking enormous risks,” Zeid added. “Parties to the conflict must cease the deliberate targeting of civilians and the use of heavy weaponry in civilian-populated areas. There must be an end to the prevailing impunity enjoyed by those responsible for civilian casualties – no matter who they are.”

While anti-Government elements remain responsible for the majority – 60 percent – of civilian casualties, there was an increase in the number of civilians killed and injured by pro-Government forces between January and June this year. During this period, UNAMA documented 1,180 civilian casualties attributable to pro-Government forces, which is 23 percent of the total so far this year, but a 47 percent increase compared to the same period last year, primarily as a result of ground engagements.

Ground engagements continue to cause the highest number of civilian casualties, followed by complex and suicide attacks and improved explosive devices (IEDs). Explosive remnants of war disproportionately impacted children who comprised 85 per cent of the casualties caused by such devices. The report contains several accounts of children killed or maimed while playing with such objects. In one case on 13 April, documented in the report, “the children had tossed the mortar round onto a paved road after unsuccessfully trying to exchange it for ice cream.”

During the period covered by the report, 157,987 Afghans were newly displaced – a 10 percent increase over the same period last year. This brings the estimated total number of conflict-induced internally displaced Afghans to 1.2 million.

The report also documents other serious human rights violations and abuses, including the deliberate targeting of women in the public sphere, use of children in armed conflict, sexual violence against boys and girls, attacks on educational and health facilities, abductions and summary executions. Human rights defenders, journalists, lawyers and judges have also been targeted, in some cases being labeled by the Taliban as “military targets”. In one suicide attack against the media, on 20 January, seven Tolo TV staff members were among eight civilians killed and 30 injured.

The report also notes the results of an investigation into the bombing of a Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) hospital in October last year, stressing that there remains a need for “a fully independent, impartial, transparent and effective investigation” with a view to assessing possible criminal liability.

The report highlights the need for accountability and justice for all human rights violations and abuses, underlining that victims and family members must not be required to submit written complaints for the authorities to initiate investigations, particularly in view of the low literacy rates in the country.

Yamamoto and Zeid emphasized that the casualties only provide part of the picture of suffering, failing to capture the full extent of the harm and limitations imposed on the Afghan people by the armed conflict.

“The protracted conflict has meant that access to education and healthcare, to livelihood and shelter, to the freedom of movement and to a whole host of civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights has been severely curtailed for millions of Afghans for far too long,” Yamamoto said.

Photo by UNAMA / Fardin Waezi.

KABUL, 25 July 2016 - A UN report on Afghanistan published Monday shows a record number of civilian casualties since counting began in 2009, with 5,166 civilians recorded killed or maimed in just the first six months of this year, of whom almost one-third were children. The total civilian casualty figure recorded by the UN between 1 January 2009 and 30 June 2016 has risen to 63,934, including 22,941 deaths and 40,993 injured.

Between January and June this year, the Human Rights team of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) documented 1,601 civilian deaths and 3,565 injured civilians. This represents an increase of four percent in the total number of casualties compared to the first six months of 2015 – and is the highest half-year total since 2009.

This year’s casualties include 1,509 children (388 dead and 1,121 injured) – a figure the UN Human Rights Chief described as “alarming and shameful,” particularly as it represents the highest numbers of children killed or wounded in a six-month period since counting began in 2009.

There were also 507 women casualties (130 killed and 377 injured). The figures are conservative – almost certainly underestimates – given the strict methodology employed in their documentation and in determining the civilian status of those affected.

The Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Afghanistan and head of UNAMA Tadamichi Yamamoto stressed that the report must serve as a call to action by parties to the conflict “to do all they can to spare civilians from the horrors of war.”

“Every single casualty documented in this report – people killed while praying, working, studying, fetching water, recovering in hospitals – every civilian casualty represents a failure of commitment and should be a call to action for parties to the conflict to take meaningful, concrete steps to reduce civilians’ suffering and increase protection,” Yamamoto said. “Platitudes not backed by meaningful action ring hollow over time. History and the collective memory of the Afghan people will judge leaders of all parties to this conflict by their actual conduct.”

“The testimony of victims and their families brings into agonizing focus the tragedy of each one of the 63,934 people killed or maimed by this protracted conflict since 2009,” said UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein.

“The family that lost a breadwinner, forcing the children to leave school and struggle to make ends meet; the driver who lost his limbs, depriving him of his livelihood; the man who went to the bazaar to shop for his children only to return home to find them dead; the broken back and leg that has never been treated because the family cannot afford the cost of treatment; the parents who collected their son’s remains in a plastic bag… In just the past six months, there have been at least 5,166 such stories – of which one-third involve the killing or maiming of children, which is particularly alarming and shameful.”

“The violations laid bare in this report set in motion a cascade of potential human rights abuses that stretch from Afghanistan to the Mediterranean and beyond, as so many Afghans are driven to seek refuge abroad, taking enormous risks,” Zeid added. “Parties to the conflict must cease the deliberate targeting of civilians and the use of heavy weaponry in civilian-populated areas. There must be an end to the prevailing impunity enjoyed by those responsible for civilian casualties – no matter who they are.”

While anti-Government elements remain responsible for the majority – 60 percent – of civilian casualties, there was an increase in the number of civilians killed and injured by pro-Government forces between January and June this year. During this period, UNAMA documented 1,180 civilian casualties attributable to pro-Government forces, which is 23 percent of the total so far this year, but a 47 percent increase compared to the same period last year, primarily as a result of ground engagements.

Ground engagements continue to cause the highest number of civilian casualties, followed by complex and suicide attacks and improved explosive devices (IEDs). Explosive remnants of war disproportionately impacted children who comprised 85 per cent of the casualties caused by such devices. The report contains several accounts of children killed or maimed while playing with such objects. In one case on 13 April, documented in the report, “the children had tossed the mortar round onto a paved road after unsuccessfully trying to exchange it for ice cream.”

During the period covered by the report, 157,987 Afghans were newly displaced – a 10 percent increase over the same period last year. This brings the estimated total number of conflict-induced internally displaced Afghans to 1.2 million.

The report also documents other serious human rights violations and abuses, including the deliberate targeting of women in the public sphere, use of children in armed conflict, sexual violence against boys and girls, attacks on educational and health facilities, abductions and summary executions. Human rights defenders, journalists, lawyers and judges have also been targeted, in some cases being labeled by the Taliban as “military targets”. In one suicide attack against the media, on 20 January, seven Tolo TV staff members were among eight civilians killed and 30 injured.

The report also notes the results of an investigation into the bombing of a Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) hospital in October last year, stressing that there remains a need for “a fully independent, impartial, transparent and effective investigation” with a view to assessing possible criminal liability.

The report highlights the need for accountability and justice for all human rights violations and abuses, underlining that victims and family members must not be required to submit written complaints for the authorities to initiate investigations, particularly in view of the low literacy rates in the country.

Yamamoto and Zeid emphasized that the casualties only provide part of the picture of suffering, failing to capture the full extent of the harm and limitations imposed on the Afghan people by the armed conflict.

“The protracted conflict has meant that access to education and healthcare, to livelihood and shelter, to the freedom of movement and to a whole host of civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights has been severely curtailed for millions of Afghans for far too long,” Yamamoto said.

Photo by UNAMA / Fardin Waezi.

KABUL, 25 July 2016 - A UN report on Afghanistan published Monday shows a record number of civilian casualties since counting began in 2009, with 5,166 civilians recorded killed or maimed in just the first six months of this year, of whom almost one-third were children. The total civilian casualty figure recorded by the UN between 1 January 2009 and 30 June 2016 has risen to 63,934, including 22,941 deaths and 40,993 injured.

Between January and June this year, the Human Rights team of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) documented 1,601 civilian deaths and 3,565 injured civilians. This represents an increase of four percent in the total number of casualties compared to the first six months of 2015 – and is the highest half-year total since 2009.

This year’s casualties include 1,509 children (388 dead and 1,121 injured) – a figure the UN Human Rights Chief described as “alarming and shameful,” particularly as it represents the highest numbers of children killed or wounded in a six-month period since counting began in 2009.

There were also 507 women casualties (130 killed and 377 injured). The figures are conservative – almost certainly underestimates – given the strict methodology employed in their documentation and in determining the civilian status of those affected.

The Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Afghanistan and head of UNAMA Tadamichi Yamamoto stressed that the report must serve as a call to action by parties to the conflict “to do all they can to spare civilians from the horrors of war.”

“Every single casualty documented in this report – people killed while praying, working, studying, fetching water, recovering in hospitals – every civilian casualty represents a failure of commitment and should be a call to action for parties to the conflict to take meaningful, concrete steps to reduce civilians’ suffering and increase protection,” Yamamoto said. “Platitudes not backed by meaningful action ring hollow over time. History and the collective memory of the Afghan people will judge leaders of all parties to this conflict by their actual conduct.”

“The testimony of victims and their families brings into agonizing focus the tragedy of each one of the 63,934 people killed or maimed by this protracted conflict since 2009,” said UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein.

“The family that lost a breadwinner, forcing the children to leave school and struggle to make ends meet; the driver who lost his limbs, depriving him of his livelihood; the man who went to the bazaar to shop for his children only to return home to find them dead; the broken back and leg that has never been treated because the family cannot afford the cost of treatment; the parents who collected their son’s remains in a plastic bag… In just the past six months, there have been at least 5,166 such stories – of which one-third involve the killing or maiming of children, which is particularly alarming and shameful.”

“The violations laid bare in this report set in motion a cascade of potential human rights abuses that stretch from Afghanistan to the Mediterranean and beyond, as so many Afghans are driven to seek refuge abroad, taking enormous risks,” Zeid added. “Parties to the conflict must cease the deliberate targeting of civilians and the use of heavy weaponry in civilian-populated areas. There must be an end to the prevailing impunity enjoyed by those responsible for civilian casualties – no matter who they are.”

While anti-Government elements remain responsible for the majority – 60 percent – of civilian casualties, there was an increase in the number of civilians killed and injured by pro-Government forces between January and June this year. During this period, UNAMA documented 1,180 civilian casualties attributable to pro-Government forces, which is 23 percent of the total so far this year, but a 47 percent increase compared to the same period last year, primarily as a result of ground engagements.

Ground engagements continue to cause the highest number of civilian casualties, followed by complex and suicide attacks and improved explosive devices (IEDs). Explosive remnants of war disproportionately impacted children who comprised 85 per cent of the casualties caused by such devices. The report contains several accounts of children killed or maimed while playing with such objects. In one case on 13 April, documented in the report, “the children had tossed the mortar round onto a paved road after unsuccessfully trying to exchange it for ice cream.”

During the period covered by the report, 157,987 Afghans were newly displaced – a 10 percent increase over the same period last year. This brings the estimated total number of conflict-induced internally displaced Afghans to 1.2 million.

The report also documents other serious human rights violations and abuses, including the deliberate targeting of women in the public sphere, use of children in armed conflict, sexual violence against boys and girls, attacks on educational and health facilities, abductions and summary executions. Human rights defenders, journalists, lawyers and judges have also been targeted, in some cases being labeled by the Taliban as “military targets”. In one suicide attack against the media, on 20 January, seven Tolo TV staff members were among eight civilians killed and 30 injured.

The report also notes the results of an investigation into the bombing of a Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) hospital in October last year, stressing that there remains a need for “a fully independent, impartial, transparent and effective investigation” with a view to assessing possible criminal liability.

The report highlights the need for accountability and justice for all human rights violations and abuses, underlining that victims and family members must not be required to submit written complaints for the authorities to initiate investigations, particularly in view of the low literacy rates in the country.

Yamamoto and Zeid emphasized that the casualties only provide part of the picture of suffering, failing to capture the full extent of the harm and limitations imposed on the Afghan people by the armed conflict.

“The protracted conflict has meant that access to education and healthcare, to livelihood and shelter, to the freedom of movement and to a whole host of civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights has been severely curtailed for millions of Afghans for far too long,” Yamamoto said.

Photo by UNAMA / Fardin Waezi.

MEPs spell out sanctions EU should take against Belarus authorities

The EU must impose a travel ban and asset freeze on Belarusian officials, judges and security officers involved in the violent election crackdown of 19 December 2010, say MEPs in a resolution adopted on Thursday. Lifting these measures should be conditional upon the release of imprisoned opposition leaders, they add.

The resolution condemns in the strongest terms possible the brutal repression by the police and KGB on Election Day and "calls for an independent and impartial international investigation into the events" under the OSCE auspices. MEPs also demand a re-run of the elections in accordance with international standards.

www.europarl.europa.eu/en/pressroom/content/20110120IPR12...

© European Union 2011 PE-EP/Pietro Naj-Oleari

The day before midsummer, the queen bee used to fly the enormous distance to a far-off ocean. She plunged to its depths in search of the rare sea flower: Neptune’s Clover. No other bee in all history could accomplish such a feat. For two thousand years, this same queen had gathered the rejuvenating and curative pollen from Neptune’s Clover.

As the days rolled on, the queen still had not returned. The colony was besides itself in worry and set forth to find her. They all latched their feet onto the hive, which was as large as a hill, and flapped their wings for lift off. When finally, they arrived to what they believed to be the area of Neptune’s Clover, their exhausted wings failed. The queen bee was nowhere to be seen. The hive, heavy with honey, and all its pilots fell into the sea. The two-thousand-year-old colony perished on a beautiful, calm afternoon, beneath the impartial waves.

Nowadays, bees might construct their hives in the nooks and crannies of human architecture. Unbeknownst to the people, their floating civilization is built right over the site of the sunken hive. Perhaps the bees of this century instinctively feel its presence, and so we find them in profusion adding their honeycombs to the present architecture.

Sunken Honey is the Arts & Entertainment Region

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I have visited Minster perhaps more than any other village in Kent. This is because the station is an excellent spot from which to snap steam tours as they manoeuvre to take the avoiding chord to Deal and Dover. And each time I go I try to get into St Mary the Virgin and I find the door locked fast.

The week before whilst visiting Monkton, I met one of the wardens who assured me that Minster would be open every Saturday morning for bellringing practice.

Saturday morning came round and so I headed to Minster with my friend Will to snap it, if it was open. Although it appeared to be locked, the door was just stiff and soon gave way to the wonders inside.

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Minster Abbey on the Isle of Thanet was founded in AD 669 by Domneva, niece of King Erconbert of Kent. The enormous parish church, built some distance to the south-west of the abbey, dates from two distinct periods. The nave is Norman, a magnificent piece of twelfth-century arcading with tall cylindrical pillars. The chancel and transepts are thirteenth century, with a three-light east window, each one double shafted inside. This end of the church has a simple stone vaulted ceiling which adds greatly to the grandeur. The glass is by Thomas Willement and dates from 1861. Ewan Christian restored the church in 1863 and added vaulted ceilings to the transepts. They had been intended by the medieval designers, but were never built. There is a set of eighteen fifteenth-century stalls with misericords and an excellent sixteenth-century font and cover.

kentchurches.info/church.asp?p=Minster+in+Thanet

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he history of Minster church is entwined with that of Minster Abbey. The abbey was founded in 670AD, when Ermenburga of Mercia accepted a gift of land from Egbert of Kent as weregild for the murder of her younger brothers at the king's court, so that she could found a nunnery on the Isle of Thanet. According to legend, the boundary of the land granted to Ermenburga was determined by the course her pet deer took when released to wander on its own. With the addition of later grants of land the estates of Minster Abbey encompassed about half of Thanet. The abbey was ransacked by the Danes, and abandoned for a time before it was refounded by the monks of Canterbury, who rebuilt the Saxon timber buildings in stone. Throughout this early part of the abbey's history the monastic church served both the nuns and the townsfolk as a parish church. For a more detailed history of Minster Abbey see our article on the abbey.

There is some confusion over what part of the church is the oldest; the nave dates to 1150, and the chancel may be slightly earlier. The tower is said to be Saxon; it certainly has old stonework and a very odd turret stair, but the material is Caen stone which only truly became popular after the Norman Conquest. So it may not be as old as it appears at first glance. The turret may have simply been a shipping lookout, for in the Middle Ages Minster had a busy port and the Wentsum Channel lapped at the base of the churchyard wall. The tower and the nave walls also contain Roman bricks.

But that's nitpicking; the church is very obviously of ancient origin and even more obviously an impressive example of medieval architecture, with features covering every century since the Norman invasion - and probably before.

We've already mentioned the 12th century nave, which has remained almost unaltered since it was built. The north aisle pillars have capitals decorated with foliage carvings, while in the aisle is a wall monument to Thomas Paramore (d. ). At the north end of the aisle is the Thorne Chapel, with the 13th century tomb of Aedile de Thorne. Look up at the lancet windows and you will see a stained glass depiction of a stag, the symbol of Thanet after the story of Ermenburga's deer.

The chancel is a true highlight; one of the finest of any parish churches in Kent. It is primarily in Early English style, with a much later Victorian east window by Thomas Willement, the “Father of Victorian Stained Glass”.

But the real highlight in the chancel are the wonderful medieval misericords that decorate the choir stalls. The early 15th century stalls feature no fewer than 18 carved misericords. These 'mercy seats' were used to provide a comfortable place for monks to rest during long services. There are 18 misericords here, probably carved in 1410, and they cover an array of subjects including a cook with a ladle, an angel playing a stringed instrument, a serpent eating its own tail, a king, dragons, lions, and other strange beasts. Perhaps the strangest, a certainly the one that tells us most about medieval society, is a depiction of a 'scold's bridle'; a woman with a bit in her mouth, intended to stop her from speaking. Together these make up one of the finest collection of misericords in the south east of England.

There are several interesting bits and bobs in the south aisle, including a cover of a wooden chained Bible in a glass display case. At the west end is a 12th century Norman font near an ancient iron-bound muniment chest, unusually made of fir with a lid of elm.

Spare a glance for the list of vicars by the door. I seldom pay these long lists much attention, but in this case there are several interesting characters among the incumbents at Minster. One was Seth Travis (1547), the first appointment made by the Archbishop of Canterbury after the Dissolution of the Monastery. Richard Clerk (1597) was one of those learned scholars named by James I to hammer out the details of the King James Bible. Then there is Meric Casaubon (1634) who was deposed by Parliament in 1644 for his Royalist sympathies. In 1652 Cromwell asked him to write a history of the war, setting down impartially 'nothing but matters of fact'. He declined. When Charles II came to the throne at the Restoration, Casaubon was reinstated as vicar of Minster.

While Casaubon was suspended during the war, however, Minster was saddled with Richard Culmer, aka 'Blue Dick'. Culmer was a virulent iconoclast, and a bitter enemy of Episcopy. He was best known for destroying monuments and breaking up stained glass at Canterbury Cathedral. So unpopular was his appointment among the townsfolk that he had trouble collecting church tithes. His name is conspicuous by its absence from the list of vicars. And speaking of such lists, Henry Wharton (1688) was the first to popularise the making of such lists of incumbents, an act he thought might impart a sense of continuity to Church of England churches. A later vicar, John Lewis (1708) wrote over a thousand sermons in his time at Minster. On his death he ordered them destroyed, fearing that vicars who followed him might find the temptation of plagiarising his works too great.

www.britainexpress.com/counties/kent/churches/minster.htm

Writing a Ange Kagame biography for someone is both a great gesture and a great gift. In case the biography writing project is for a family member or friend, and you do not think you don't think you have the necessary writing experience, remember that there are biography writing services out there to help you out. As a biography is an account of another person's life, in a way it is easier to write, because you being the outsider can write Kagame's Daughters impartially without having the emotional attachment.visit our www.hope-mag.com/news.php?option=lnews&ca=1&a=1157 site for more information on Ange Kagame Images

Composing a Ange Kagame biography for a person is both a great gesture and a fantastic gift. In case the biography composing project is for a family member or guest, and you do not believe you do not believe you have the needed writing experience, bear in mind that there are bio writing services around to aid you out. As a biography is an account of one more person's life, in a way it is less complicated to write, because you being the outsider could write Kagame's Daughters impartially without having the psychological attachment.visit our www.hope-mag.com/news.php?option=lnews&ca=1&a=1157 site for more information on Ange Kagame photos

Sign on construction scaffolding outside Yes! Foods on Capitol Hill, 658 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Washington DC

Cedar Grove Cemetery, New Bern, NC

December, 2009

View On Black

Daves died in New Bern on October 12, 1804, in the 57th year of his age. His death was sudden, caused by apoplexy or paralysis, and he was buried with military and Masonic honors. There is a handsome monument to his memory in Cedar Grove Cemetery, New Bern, the oddly worded but very laudatory epitaph on which was written by the Rev. Thos. P. Irving, so well known as a teacher in New Bern in the olden time. The inscription and epitaph are as follows:

Here are deposited the remains of

Major John Daves;

One Of the well tried patriots of our Revolutionary war;

who departed this life October 12th, 1804,

Aged 56 years.

Epitaph by a Friend.

Beneath this monumental stone repos'd

In shrouded gloom, the relics of the dead

Await th' archangels renovating trump,

And the dread sentence of the Judge Supreme.

But God's the Judge ! in truth and justice robed ;

Impartial to reward the friend sincere,

The virtues of the patriot, parent, spouse ;

And these O Major ! these were surely thine.

Yes, these were thine—and more still more conjoin'd

T' endear thee to thy family and friends,

To leave a lasting memory behind,

And seal thy passport to the realms of bliss.

La Grande Encyclopédie, inventaire raisonné des sciences, des lettres, et des arts est une encyclopédie de 31 volumes publiée en France de 1886 à 1902 par Henri Lamirault, et plus tard par la Société anonyme de la grande encyclopédie.

Titre : Dictionnaire universel d'histoire et de géographie

Auteur(s) : réalisée par une société de savants et de gens de lettres

Langue : Français

Éditeur : Henri Lamirault, et plus tard par la Société anonyme de la grande encyclopédie

Lieu : Paris

Publication : de 1886 à 1902.

Pages : 32 volumes

réalisée par une société de savants et de gens de lettres, Dictionnaire universel d'histoire et de géographie, Henri Lamirault, et plus tard par la Société anonyme de la grande encyclopédie, Paris, de 1886 à 1902.

@Book{ Author = {réalisée par une société de savants et de gens de lettres},Title = {Dictionnaire universel d'histoire et de géographie},Language = {Français},Publisher = {Henri Lamirault, et plus tard par la Société anonyme de la grande encyclopédie},Year = {de 1886 à 1902.},}

Dictionnaire universel d'histoire et de géographie / réalisée par une société de savants et de gens de lettres. – Paris : Henri Lamirault, et plus tard par la Société anonyme de la grande encyclopédie, de 1886 à 1902.. – – Français

réalisée par une société de savants et de gens de lettres, Dictionnaire universel d'histoire et de géographie, Paris, Henri Lamirault, et plus tard par la Société anonyme de la grande encyclopédie, de 1886 à 1902.

Une version en ligne est consultable sur le [1] depuis 1995

Les secrétaires principaux de rédaction étaient F.-Camille Dreyfus et Marcellin Berthelot.

La plupart des articles sont signés et comprennent une bibliographie. Dans ses 31 volumes de 1 200 pages chacun, il y a environ 200 000 articles, 15 000 illustrations et 200 cartes.

La préface indique:

La France, malgré des tentatives nombreuses dont quelques-unes ont été, en leur temps, couronnées de succès, ne possède pas encore un grand ouvrage encyclopédique, populaire et cependant au courant des plus récents progrès de la science moderne.... La Grande Encyclopédie est une œuvre de haute vulgarisation. Elle se propose de constater l'état actuel de la science moderne, de dresser l'inventaire des connaissances humaines à notre époque. Etrangère aux querelles du jour, résolue à ne pas être une œuvre de combat, la Grande Encyclopédie n'a et ne peut avoir d'autre règle que l'impartialité de la science. ...Elle expose les faits avec une scrupuleuse exactitude, les théories diverses ou contradictoires avec impartialité: il appartient au lecteur de comparer et de conclure.

Selon le catalogue de la Library of Congress, les volumes ont été publiés pendant les années : 1-2: 1886, 3-4: 1887, 4: 1887, 5-6: 1888, 7-8: 1889, 8: 1889, 9-11: 1890, 12-13: 1891, 14-16: 1892, 17-18: 1893, 19-20: 1894, 21: 1895, 22: 1896, 23: 1898, 24-26: 1899, 27-8: 1900, 29-30: 1901, 31: 1902.

La Grande Encyclopédie se veut un ouvrage ouvert sur les sciences contemporaines. Ses auteurs souhaitaient qu’elles füt une actualisation de l’Encyclopédie de Diderot.

Elle se veut impartiale. En fait de nombreux articles se présentent comme de précieux témoignages de la seconde partie du XIXe siècle (défense et illustration du positivisme, éducation laïque, développement des sciences, ...).

"If people bring so much courage to this world the world has to kill them to break them so of course it kills them... It kills the very good and the very gentle and the very brave impartially. If you are none of these you can be sure that it will kill you too but there will be no special hurry. We love you, D.R."

Tom Loveland, USGS senior scientist at the Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center in Sioux Falls, S.D., speaks during a news conference between NASA and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to highlight the accomplishments of the world's longest-running Earth-observing satellite program, Landsat, at the Newseum, Monday, July 23, 2012, in Washington. In cooperation with the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) and its science agency, USGS, NASA launched the first Landsat satellite July 23, 1972. The resulting 40-year archive of Earth observations from the Landsat fleet forms an impartial, comprehensive, and easily accessed register of human and natural changes on the land. Photo Credit: (NASA/Paul E. Alers)

Greater Manchester Police has welcomed another 100 new recruits as police officers.

The new officers were sworn in last night at an Attestation Ceremony, held in the core of the community, at The Oldham Academy North.

Proudly witnessed by friends and family, the new officers each made an oath to uphold the role of constable with fairness, integrity, diligence and impartiality throughout their service.

Joining Chief Constable Ian Hopkins, were magistrates Joan Cooper and Mike Phillips.

The new officers come from a range of backgrounds and bring lots of new skills with them that will assist as they start their new role policing their communities. Many of them are fluent in a second language, which will help give access to our services for all communities in Greater Manchester.

Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: “ Policing our local communities across Greater Manchester with the support of local people is at the heart of policing. It is therefore fitting that their Attestation Ceremony is held in the heart of the community.

“This group of officers is the first since 2009 to be recruited directly from our communities, rather than already having a role within policing. They have all come through a very rigorous recruitment and selection process, but the hard work starts here for them as they train to be a police officer operating in a very complex society.

“I am certain that they will all be great assets to the GMP and the people of Greater Manchester. I hope you will join me in wishing them a successful career.”

Greater Manchester Police and Crime Commissioner, Tony Lloyd added: “It’s great to see a new wave of police officers ready to take to the streets of Greater Manchester. Each brings their own unique strengths, skills and experiences and will be an asset to the communities they serve.

“I’m pleased to see that of the 100 new recruits from local communities; more than a third are from black and minority ethnic backgrounds. These new officers are part of a significant investment and continued commitment to neighbourhood policing, bringing new blood, new ideas and more diversity into the service, which can only bring benefits for the wider community.”

For more information about Policing in Greater Manchester please visit our website. www.gmp.police.uk

Always call 999 in an emergency, such as when a crime is in progress, violence is being used or threatened or where there is danger to life.

To report crime call police on 101 the national non-emergency number.

You can also call anonymously with information about crime to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Crimestoppers is an independent charity who will not want your name, just your information. Your call will not be traced or recorded and you do not have to go to court or give a statement.

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Composing a Ange Kagame biography for a person is both a great gesture and a fantastic gift. In case the biography composing project is for a family member or guest, and you do not believe you do not believe you have the needed writing experience, bear in mind that there are bio writing services around to aid you out. As a biography is an account of one more person's life, in a way it is less complicated to write, because you being the outsider could write Kagame's Daughters impartially without having the psychological attachment.visit our www.hope-mag.com/news.php?option=lnews&ca=1&a=1157 site for more information on Ange Kagame photos

Source: The beautiful victim of the Elm City: being a full, fair, and impartial narrative of all that is known of the terrible fate of the trusting and unfortunate Jennie E. Cramer, giving all the evidence that led the jury to hold James Malley, Jr. as her murderer, and to denounce Walter E. Malley and Blanche Douglass as aiders and abettors, in this terrible social tragedy (New York: M.J. Ivers & Co., publishers, 1881); 25 cm. McDade 666. Call # TrialsB M29 1881 c.2.

"This is a New Haven, Connecticut, case in which Jennie Cramer was found dead, face down in water. [This work goes] only as far as the coroner's charge against Malley. He was cleared and the death may have been accidental. Edmund Pearson [Dime Novels, Boston 1929] credits this case with starting the famous series of dime novels in which was introduced one of the most celebrated detectives of paperback fiction: Old Cap Collier." – McDade, ANNALS OF MURDER

“We love Marrakech”

This was our second visit to Marrakech and we decided to stay at the same riad that we stayed in last year, Riad Dar Najat.

The riad is located within a 5 minute walk away from Jemma el Fna square, in a very quite part of the Old Medina of Marrakech. We had the airport transfer arranged for us by the owner Oliver as it seemed like the easiest option for us. On our last visit we found that a lot of the taxi drivers around Marrakech do not speak any English, getting the riad to organise the transfer meant that we could relax and let the driver take us to the riad.

The riad itself has been renovated since our last visit, everything looked perfect. The staff are so friendly at this riad, they all remembered us from last year and it was like seeing old friends. Whatever you need the staff can get it organised for you, if you need any tips on where to go or what to eat, they will be happy to give you impartial advice.

The food at the riad seemed even better than last time, the tagines they cook are made to perfection and we even got the cook to give us some of the spices she used to bring back home.

All of the rooms are ensuite and have everything that you need inside them, complimentry toiletries were provided and the towels were changed daily. The riad was kept spotless and we could not fault anything we experienced on our stay.

Be warned that Marrakech is a very addictive city, we are already planning our third trip and will be booking to stay at Riad Dar Najat again.

As insecurity maims the great majority of Al-Anbar, many families attempt to leave the governorate for the safety of Baghdad through the Bzbiz bridge – a tightly controlled entry point to the capital.

Crossing through the checkpoint and over the bridge has been strictly managed by Iraqi Security Forces in April and May 2015. Only families with sponsors in Baghdad governorate and medical emergencies have been periodically allowed to cross. The humanitarian community has expressed their grave concern about the well-being of displaced people caught up in the fighting.

Map source: OCHA/IOM DTM 25 April 2015

Declaration of 4,000 MPs, including majorities of 30 parliaments

Moreover, a deceleration by over 4,000 MPs from 40 countries across the globe in support of the Iranian Resistance and especially Ashraf residents was unveiled at the gathering. The MPs, including the majority of the European Parliament, the majority of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe and majorities of 28 national parliaments, called for the urgent protection of Ashraf by the UN, U.S. and EU, the immediate lifting of the siege on Ashraf – especially ensuring free access to medical services – and an impartial, comprehensive and independent investigation into the crimes committed on April 8th in Ashraf

In a large and exhilarating gathering held in the Villepinte Auditorium near Paris on Saturday afternoon, 18 June 2011, Iranians called for the immediate protection of Ashraf by the UN with assistance provided by the U.S. and EU. They also condemned any kind of displacement of Ashraf residents inside Iraq, and declared their support for Europe’s peaceful long-term solution for Ashraf. The participants described maintaining the terrorist tag against the People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) by the US State Department as an illegal measure and tantamount to participating in the repression of the Iranian people and Resistance. The attendees called on the U.S. government to comply with last July's verdict of the U.S. Court of Appeals in D.C. and immediately revoke the PMOI's terrorist designation.

Hundreds of prominent politicians and MPs representing a broad range of political views from countries in five continents of the globe also took part in the largest gathering of its kind by Iranian exiles. In addition to expressing their support for the Iranian Resistance and defending Ashraf’s rights, the high-profile dignitaries also called for the recognition of the National Council of Resistance by the international community

Rudolph Giuliani, former New York City Mayor and Presidential Candidate (2008); US Congressman Bob Filner; Rita Sussmouth, former Speaker of the German Parliament (1988-1998); Judge Michael Mukasey, former US Attorney General (2007-2009); Ambassador John Bruton, former Prime Minister of Ireland (1994-1997) and EU ambassador to the US (2004-2005); Jean-Pierre Brard, Member of French National Assembly; Andrew Card, White House Chief of Staff of President George Bush (2001-2006); Tom Ridge, first US Secretary of Homeland Security (2003-2005); Alejo Vidal Quadras, European Parliament Vice President; Geir Haarde, former Prime Minister of Iceland (2006-2009); Lord Corbett of Castle Vale, Head of the Labour Peers group in the House of Lords; Nariman al-Rousan, Member of Jordanian Parliament; Aude de Thuin, author and founder of the Women Forum; Sid Ahmed Ghozali, former Prime Minister of Algeria; Robert Torricelli, former U.S. Senator; Carlo Ciccioli, Member of the Italian Parliament; Jean-Charles Rielle, Member of the Swiss Federal Parliament; and Henry Leclerc, Honorary President of the Human Rights League of France.

A number of French mayors, including Jean-Pierre Béquet, Mayor of Auvers-sur-Oise; Nelly Rolland, Mayor of Villepinte; and Maurice Boscavert, Mayor of Taverny, delivered speeches and declared the support of 5,000 French mayors for the Iranian Resistance.

The ceremony was held on the eve of June 20th, the Day of Martyrs and Political Prisoners in Iran. The master of ceremony for the first part of the event was Congressman Patrick Kennedy, Member of US House of Representatives until 2011. David Amess, Member of British Parliament from the Conservative Party, took over the event for the second part.

While being accompanied by Mrs. Rezaii (the mother of 7 martyrs), Mahin Saremi and a number of French MPs, Mrs. Maryam Rajavi honored the memory of 120,000 martyrs of the Iranian people, who have fallen during the three decade struggle against the clerical dictatorship, including the martyrs of the past two years and those who lost their lives as a result of the recent criminal attack against Ashraf.

Mrs. Mahin Saremi, the wife of PMOI supporter Ali Saremi, also took part in the gathering. Ali Saremi was Iran’s most prominent political prisoner and was hanged last year by the Iranian regime after enduring 24 years of imprisonment and torture. Mrs. Saremi, who herself was arrested and imprisoned several times since the 1980s, was recently condemned to 10 years of imprisonment but managed to flee from the Iranian regime and reach Paris. Akbar, the son of Ali and Mahin Saremi, is among the residents of Ashraf.

Powerful Portadown profit from poor performanceby Roger Corbett

A powerful Portadown side gained revenge for their defeat by Bangor in the Junior Cup last season by taking advantage of the home team’s poor performance and deservedly finishing ahead by 24-43.

With a number of changes to the side that did so well against Dromore last week, a young Bangor side got this second round Junior Cup fixture underway. The playing conditions were good, with the breeze blowing across the pitch and not benefiting either side. From the outset, Portadown played the game at a fast pace, and pushed Bangor back into their own half for long periods. Both sides, however, made many unforced errors and as a result promising attacks were halted.

After 10 minutes of play, it was Bangor who got the scoreboard started, when Portadown conceded a penalty for being offside and Mark Thompson converted the kicking opportunity. Portadown then resumed their attacks and it looked like they would score next. However, from a lineout on the Portadown twenty two, the ball was taken by Freddie Black before the rest of the pack formed around him and started to drive for the line. The rolling maul moved slowly forwards and sideways until one final push saw captain Jamie Clegg carried over to score to the right of the Portadown posts. The conversion by Neil Cuthbertson was successful and Bangor were now 10-0 ahead.

Even an impartial observer might have commented that this score was against the run of play, but to Bangor’s credit they took their chances well. Unfortunately, just 5 minutes later Bangor were reduced to 14 men after Black was yellow carded. From the resulting penalty, Portadown kicked for touch, and secured the ball from the lineout. They patiently worked the ball through their forwards until a gap opened up in the Bangor defence, allowing an easy run through to score under the Bangor posts. With the conversion, the score was now 10-7.

With only a few minutes of the first half remaining, Portadown continued to push forward and from a good cross field kick, they took advantage of the reduced Bangor cover and scored in the left hand corner. The tricky kick into the wind was successful, and Portadown were now in front by 10-14. To add to Bangor’s woes, scrum half Danny Diamond had to retire injured with what looks like a broken collar bone, and front row forward Phil Whyte limped off with a bad calf injury – we wish both a full and speedy recovery. Undeterred, Bangor tried to fight back and came very close in the final minute when more good forward play got the ball over the Portadown line, but it wasn’t able to be grounded.

As the teams turned around, Bangor would probably have been the happier with the scoreline, especially given the amount of possession Portadown had enjoyed in the first half. However, over the course of the following 20 odd minutes, and largely as a result of their own mistakes, their task became much harder. It started with another poor Bangor lineout which Portadown won and simply broke through to score in the right hand corner. The kick was good, extending the lead to 10-21. Then Bangor lost the ball in contact in the centre of the pitch, allowing the Portadown backline to quickly move the ball wide to their winger who rounded the Bangor defence to score under the posts.

Finally, from their scrum, Portadown took advantage of some missed tackles to open up a gap and score again under the Bangor posts. The score was now 10-35, and Bangor had a mountain to climb.

If the game looked lost at this point, nobody had obviously told Jamie Clegg. From Mark Thompson’s restart, Clegg ran in pursuit and managed to snatch the ball from the Portadown receiving player. He then had just enough time to pass outside to Neil Cuthbertson who managed to negotiate 3 Portadown defenders to score, and reduce the deficit to 17-35, with 26 minutes gone.

Shortly afterwards, the Portadown hooker was yellow carded. However, instead of capitalising on this advantage, Bangor then conceded another penalty, this time in front of their posts. The Portadown kicker gratefully took the 3 points, making the score 17-38.

It was around this point that it was starting to look like Portadown were paying the price for their furious onslaught in the first half. Bangor sensed the weakness and started to play their best rugby of the game so far. Patient build-ups by the forwards, accompanied by strong runs from the backs, produced the opportunity for full back Davy Charles to dive under his tacklers to score beside the posts. Cuthbertson’s quick kick was good, and the score was now 24-38.

As the final play approached, and the end result no longer in question, yet another lineout mix-up gave Portadown possession again. With the Bangor defence largely flat footed, Portadown cut through and, despite a desperate covering tackle by Charles, touched down for the final score of the game. Although the kick was missed, Portadown’s victory was by an emphatic 24-43 margin.

This young Bangor side can learn much from their older, wiser opponents. While fitness and commitment is not in question, consistency of technique in basic set pieces, and retention of the ball when in contact would need to improve, or at least return to levels seen in earlier games. While the disappointment of an early exit from the Junior Cup cannot be denied, the focus will now be wholly on returning to success in the league, the next fixture being a home meeting with Cooke.

Bangor side: P Whyte (P Dornan), A Jackson, J Harrison, R Meeke, F Black, M Coey, J Clegg (c), C Stewart, D Diamond (P Nicol), M Thompson, M Widdowson, M Aspley, M Weir, N Cuthbertson, D Charles

Subs: P Nicol, P Dornan

Bangor scores: J Clegg (1T), N Cuthbertson (1T), D Charles (1T), M Thompson (1P, 3C)