APTN National NewsPrime Minister Stephen Harper has been asked to help find out why there’s been a spike in childhood leukemia on the Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory.Harper received a letter from concerned mother Kimberly Maracle Friday demanding to know what the Canadian government is doing pinpoint the cause.“As a mother living on this territory, with a 12 year old child going to school on the territory at the same school that the other children are coming down sick … What is the Canadian government going to do about this situation?” said Maracle in her email. “Are your offices aware of this epidemic?”Tyendinaga is a community of about 2,600 people about 2 hours east of Toronto. Within the last year three cases of leukemia have been confirmed on the reserve and another two just north in Tyendinaga Township. APTN National News reporter Delaney Windigo first reported the story Nov. 5.She spoke with parent Dawn Sero who lost her daughter Paula, 13, in September a few months after she was diagnosed. Fellow resident Shawn Brant’s daughter is currently fighting for her life in The Hospital For Sick Children in Toronto.In recent days, APTN National News has been in contact with Chief Don Maracle who says water tests at the Quinte Mohawk School have come back showing no contaminants but further water tests haven’t been able to pinpoint a cause.Maracle says Health Canada has agreed to be part of a committee to root out the problem. Doctors, scientists, band council members and parents will also sit on the committee.“Health Canada has been contacted by (Maracle) requesting that the department participate on a committee of stakeholders to undertake a further investigation. Health Canada has agreed to participate,” said a spokesperson in an email. “In keeping with best practices for investigating disease clusters, Health Canada offers to conduct analyses, in conjunction with local and provincial health partners, to help identify possible trends and risk factors in situations of this nature.”Kimberly Maracle questions whether the band council has done enough.“There is an epidemic of our children getting sick on our territory,” she wrote, adding other children have brain tumors and open sores on their bodies. “We are in a crisis situation.” kjackson@aptn.ca
Provincial surplus rises as growth remains stable in BC finance minister
VICTORIA – The British Columbia government is forecasting a growing budget surplus and economic growth that will lead Canada in the coming year despite dropping real estate tax revenues and declining property sales.The latest budget update released Friday forecasts a budget surplus of $669 million, which is $450 million higher than was projected in February’s budget. Finance Minister Carole James said B.C.’s economic growth projections of 2.2 per cent this year and 1.8 per cent in 2019 are among the highest in Canada.James said she welcomed the most recent Finance Ministry data showing reduced revenues from property transfer taxes and sales declines since April.“I truly believe B.C. has to move away from an economy that is built on speculation in real estate to a more sustainable approach,” she said at a news conference.The financial update for the first three months of the fiscal year includes a decline in property transfer tax revenue of $250 million as property sales dropped by 19.4 per cent from April to June.Opposition Liberal Leader Andrew Wilkinson said he sees jobs losses and a sputtering economy in the near future.“Carole James is admitting that the only NDP plan is to shrink the real estate part of the economy, reduce the value of peoples houses and have a dramatic drop in the construction sector, and nothing is going to change in terms of affordability because prices are staying where they’ve been,” he said.James said the most recent numbers do not show declines in property prices.“The biggest risk to B.C.’s economic growth right now, one of the biggest risks, is the issue of unaffordable housing,” she said. “We aren’t able to attract employees. We aren’t able to retain people in business because of the increasing price in housing.”Last February, the province’s minority NDP government tried to ease the province’s housing crisis with a budget that introduced a new tax on property speculators, higher taxes on foreign home buyers and plans to create 114,000 affordable housing units over the next decade.James said the government doesn’t control all the factors that relate to housing, including interest rates and mortgages rules, but it does want property prices to moderate and vacancy rates to increase.The latest financial results “show that the housing market is moderating and we’re seeing strong growth and we’re continuing to see surpluses and we’re continuing to balance the budget,” she said.
BC Court of Appeal to hear provinces oil transport reference case Monday
VANCOUVER, B.C. – British Columbia’s Court of Appeal will consider a key question regarding provincial powers in the political battle over the future of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion project during a five-day hearing that starts Monday.The B.C. government’s reference case asks the court if the province has jurisdiction to regulate the transport of oil through its territory and restrict bitumen shipments from Alberta.Specifically, it asks if proposed amendments to British Columbia’s Environmental Management Act are valid and if they give the province the authority to control the shipment of heavy oils based on the impact spills could have on the environment, human health or communities. The province is also asking the court whether the amendments are overridden by federal law.Alberta Premier Rachel Notley and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau have said only Ottawa, not the provinces, has the authority to decide what goes in trans-boundary pipelines.Alberta and Saskatchewan have both filed documents as interested parties supporting the federal government in the case.When B.C. filed the reference case last year, Alberta announced it would ban B.C. wines and accused Horgan of trying to break the rules of Confederation in newspaper ads.Last summer, the Federal Appeal Court overturned approval of the project to triple oil shipments from Edmonton to Burnaby, B.C., ruling that the National Energy Board had not properly considered its impact on marine life nor had Ottawa meaningfully consulted with Indigenous groups.Last month, the board found that the pipeline is still in the public interest despite the risk that an increase in tanker traffic could adversely affect southern resident killer whales, hurt related Indigenous culture and increase greenhouse gas emissions. It added 16 new recommendations for federal government action in addition to the 156 conditions in its initial approval in 2016. The federal government purchased the pipeline last year.Trudeau has said the expansion is in the best interests of all Canadians and his government has committed $1.5 billion to an ocean protection plan that includes millions for research on B.C. killer whales.Horgan said last year the aim of the case is to protect the province’s coastline and economy from the harms of an oil spill.“We believe it is our right to take appropriate measures to protect our environment, economy and our coast from the drastic consequence of a diluted bitumen spill,” Horgan said in a statement when the reference case was announced last April.
“And we are prepared to confirm that right in the courts.”
Energy sector helps lift Toronto stock market as price of oil climbs
The Canadian Press TORONTO — The energy sector helped lift Canada’s main stock index in late-morning trading, while the price for oil climbed higher.The S&P/TSX composite index was up 66.70 points at 16,424.45.In New York, the Dow Jones industrial average was up 95.60 points at 26,060.69. The S&P 500 index was up 7.57 points at 2,891.62, while the Nasdaq composite was up 23.98 points at 7,987.74.The Canadian dollar traded for 74.31 cents US compared with an average of 74.21 cents US on Tuesday.The June crude contract was up 76 cents at US$62.16 per barrel and the June natural gas contract was up 7.3 cents at US$2.61 per mmBTU.The June gold contract was down US$1.50 at US$1,284.10 an ounce and the July copper contract was down 0.2 of a cent at US$2.78 a pound. Companies in this story: (TSX:GSPTSE, TSX:CADUSD=X)
Ontarios debt will balloon to 350 billion in five years financial accountability
TORONTO — Ontario’s financial accountability officer says it’s possible the Liberal government can keep its promise to balance the books by 2017-18, but only if the economy grows at a stronger pace than in the past five years.And even if they do get to balance on schedule, Stephen LeClair predicts the province will quickly be plunged back into annual budget deficits.LeClair also warns the accumulated deficits and the Liberals’ “large infrastructure plans” will add $54 billion over the next five years to the province’s net debt, which he says will hit $350 billion.Canadians with subprime credit ramp up the debt, Alberta delinquencies on the rise: reportRoss McKitrick: Climate crazy Ontari-ari-ario’s no place to grow, but to get the hell out ofKevin Libin: Ontario’s big, green assisted economic suicide planLeClair’s forecasts are less optimistic than the government’s — he projects a $580-million shortfall in 2017-18, but concedes there’s enough flexibility in the Liberals’ plan that they could eliminate the red ink that year as promised.He warns there will be increasing spending pressure on the government from demographic changes and higher costs of services, and points out the province is relying on growth to exceed the average in recent years.If growth maintains the same pace, LeClair says there would be a deficit of $1.4 billion in 2017-18, growing to $3.5 billion by 2020-021.He projects government revenues will grow at an average pace of 3.8 per cent a year, faster than the 2.6 per cent pace in the last four years.LeClair says Ontario’s net debt-to-GDP ratio will peak at 39.6 per cent this year, falling slightly to 38.4 per cent by 2020-21. He says the Liberals have given no details of how or when they’ll keep a promise to cut it to 27 per cent.LeClair also says employment is expected to grow steadily, reflecting growth in the economy, but says on average Ontario will add about 80,000 new jobs a year, gradually reducing the unemployment rate to six per cent by 2020.
Four teenagers accused of planning to travel to Syria to join Isil
Mohanned Jasim Four teenagers accused of planning to travel to Syria to join Isil have appeared in court on terror charges.The young men, who are all from London, were said to be plotting to carry out acts of terrorism abroad.Two of them are charged with going to the gym and paintballing as training for their plans while the other two are accused of buying flights and visas to Turkey and survival equipment.They are all also accused of having extremist material and swapping messages online discussing how to get out to the war-torn country.One of them allegedly had a video on his phone of battles, crusades and prisoners of IS being executed.Another is charged with having details about how to build a pressure cooker bomb.A fifth boy, aged 15, is accused of having terrorist materials, including Isil publication Inspire and a bomb-making video.All five appeared in custody at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, supported by their families. A 16-year-old from Lambeth is charged with preparation of terrorist acts and a 17-year-old from Hounslow has been charged with preparation of terrorist acts and dissemination of terrorist publications.Ahmedeltigani Alsyed, 19, of Hounslow, and a 17-year-old from Merton, are each charged with a count of preparation of terrorist acts and collection of information contrary to section 58 of the Terrorism Act 2000. Meanwhile, two men were sentenced on Saturday to a total of seven years and two months’ imprisonment after pleading guilty to terrorism offences at the Central Criminal Court. Mohammed Mayow, 23, from Middlesex and Mohanned Jasim, 21, from Southall, were arrested at Dover Eastern Docks by Kent Police as they tried to leave the country in December 2015. Mohammed Mayow The four appeared together in the dock and were ordered to appear at the Old Bailey on March 17.The 15-year-old, of Waltham Forest, appeared in a separate youth hearing at the same court.He pleaded not guilty to one charge of possession and two counts of dissemination of terrorist publications and is due to stand trial on May 2 at Westminster Magistrates’ Court.Four of the teenagers were arrested at addresses in south and west London on Tuesday while the 15-year-old boy was arrested on Monday evening in east London. Want the best of The Telegraph direct to your email and WhatsApp? Sign up to our free twice-daily Front Page newsletter and new audio briefings. 
Four teenagers accused of planning to travel to Syria to join Isil 
Chinas coal imports may reach 400– 500 Mt within three years
Ranjeet Sundher, President of Challenger Deep Resources, an exploration company focused on the Indonesian coal industry, tells us that “Chinese financial website Finet quotes Phil Ren, Chief of the China Coal Importers Association, as saying at an industry conference in Singapore, China’s coal imports may reach 400– 500 Mt within three years. That would constitute massive growth from current levels. China imported 234.3 Mt in 2012, which constituted a huge jump – 28.7% – over the year before. Ren said the Chinese market is highly sensitive to price movements and would import coal even when it is able to satisfy coal demand from domestic sources.“The China National Coal Association announced that production in the country reached 3.66 billion t in 2012, up by 4% compared to the year before.“Growth in coal consumption in China has been even more spectacular than its output growth – growing for 12 years in a row – according to newly released international data from the US Energy Information Administration (EIA):“China’s coal use grew by 325 Mt in 2011, accounting for 87% of the 374 Mt global increase in coal use. Of the 2.9 billion t of global coal demand growth since 2000, China accounted for 2.3 billion t (82%). China now accounts for 47% of global coal consumption—almost as much as the entire rest of the world combined.“Robust coal demand growth in China is the result of a more than 200% increase in Chinese electric generation since 2000, fueled primarily by coal. China’s coal demand growth averaged 9% per year from 2000 to 2010, more than double the global growth rate of 4% and significantly higher than global growth excluding China, which averaged only 1%.“While Australian and Indonesian coal miners have been the main beneficiaries of Chinese growth, the US coal industry – struggling to compete with cheap natural gas at home – has been thrown a lifeline by upping exports. US exports are on track for a record year in 2012 of more than 125 Mt. That is up from just 40 Mt a decade ago and in line with the all-time record set in 1981. While metallurgical coal used in steel-making still constitutes the bulk of US exports, all the growth has come from increased steam coal exports.
Polish right wing Jakub Lucak retires at age 28
Jakub Lucak ← Previous Story Cristina Neagu becomes “Honorary Citizen of Bucharest” Next Story → Hannover strong for Flensburg! Sad news coming from Poland, where former national team player Jakub Lucak decided to retire at age 28. The Polish right wing had serious troubles with knee ligaments in the past and he couldn’t get back in the shape after recovery period, so retirement was the only option for Lucak who played at Men’s EHF EURO 2014 and 2016 for his country. Lucak raised up as a player in the team Chrobry Glogow.He had problems also with Achille tendon in the past.Lucak was a member of Vive Kielce, but actually, due series of injuries, he couldn’t show a real quality on the court. He had 28 appearances for Poland and 37 goals scored.
Greek Autism Group to be thrown out of building
Facebook Twitter: @NeosKosmos Instagram A Greek run autism support group might be the latest victim to suffer from the Brimbank council scandal.St Albans based Autism Angels will lose their place of residence, following the refusal of Brimbank council to renew their building leased by Hakki Suleyman through the Australian Turkish Cypriot Cultural and Welfare Association.Autism Angels have been operating gratis out of the building in which the the Australian Turkish Cypriot Cultural and Welfare Association operates. Instead of extending the lease which expires at the end of April, the council plans to manage the premises, located at 76 Bigg Street, St Albans, as a hall or space for hire.Ms Havelas cannot understand the council’s decision, particularly after the group was awarded a Brimbank Council award on Australia Day for community well-being.“It’s hard enough when children are disadvantaged and it saddens up that the Brimbank council don’t know our plight,” she said, adding that the council did not provide a reason as to why the lease would not be extended.“The closure of the centre will shut down all support for families, and it could take months to find another place within the local area of Brimbank.”Ms Havelas said that she felt Autism Angels were being denied the “basic freedom” because there were no councillors to advocate on their behalf.Established in 2009 by Despina Havelas, Autism Angels has successfully supported families affected by autism, acting as a drop in centre for autistic children when parents are under strain. Hakki Slleyman sees the Council’s action as being revenge for the findings of the Ombudsman’s report on Brimbank.“Sometimes things happen but you have to put it away and move forward. That’s not the way… to take revenge on not-for profit organisations.”Brimbank council decisions are currently made by three administrators and/or the Brimbank management team following the dismissal of its councillors last year.Ms Havelas will meet with Brimbank administrator and chair, Peter Lewinsky on February 12 to dispute their decision.Neos Kosmos contacted Mr Lewinksy who said it would be inappropriate to make a comment prior to the meeting.
nLight setting sights on growth in the coming years
For many, the idea of American warships and Humvees being equipped with lasers sounds like science fiction.For one Vancouver company, it’s a goal.nLight, an industrial laser manufacturer at 5408 N.E. 88th St., announced this month it won a $1.93 million contract to research and help develop new components for military-grade lasers. The contract was awarded by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, the research arm of the U.S. military.nLight representatives say the technology, called “directed energy,” channels intense light particles into lasers for an array of military applications. The biggest examples would be defending military aircraft from rockets or shooting down enemy drones.“It’s a pretty big new application area,” said nLight CEO Scott Keeney in a recent interview.High-powered lasers have seemed like a fringe technology for years, labeled as too expensive and impractical for military use. But the technology is evolving, attracting more investment and driving down costs.While nLight’s products have mainly been used for precision manufacturing, it stands to gain from any new applications. And it hopes its expertise can be a part of the U.S. military’s future.“The market for high-powered directed energy lasers for laser weapons systems is projected to grow rapidly during the next decade,” the company said after it received the contract. “Products developed as part of (this) program will further nLight’s position as a leading laser manufacturer for this growing market.”
Walmart introduces tuition benefit for US staff
Retail organisation Walmart has launched a new tuition benefit for all US employees and eligible employee family members.The new benefit, which was implemented on 30 May 2018, has been designed as part of a broader approach to help employees succeed by facilitating easier access to a college education.The tuition benefit, offered in partnership with education benefits platform Guild Education, allows employees to attain degrees in supply chain management or business through three different schools: the University of Florida, Brandman University and Bellevue University.Walmart is subsidising tuition costs, as well as the cost of books and fees, in order to minimise potential student loan debt. Under the scheme, employees have to contribute $1 (£0.75) a day towards their college degree. Employees are also able to build college credit prior to undertaking their degree course by completing paid training at Walmart Academies.The new tuition benefit additionally provides employees with a Guild Education coach, who can support staff members on aspects such as the application and enrolment process or selecting the appropriate degree.Walmart has commissioned The Lumina Foundation to undertake an independent evaluation of the outcomes of its new scheme.The tuition benefit is available for full-time, part-time and salaried US employees who work in Walmart’s stores, supply chain and home office. Sam’s Club employees are also able to utilise the iniative.The new benefit will run alongside a variety of existing educational benefits offered by Walmart. This includes employer-paid high school diplomas or general education diplomas, tuition discounts, financial aid assistance and education coaching, and access to professional development courses.Greg Foran, chief executive officer at Walmart US, said: “Investing in the personal and professional success of our [employees] is vital to Walmart’s future success. We know training and learning opportunities empower [employees] to deliver for customers while growing and advancing their careers.”
Surrey County Council launches cycle to work scheme
Surrey County Council has launched a cycle to work scheme as part of its new employee benefits platform for 23,000 employees.The scheme, provided by Green Commute Initiative (GCI), was implemented in August 2018 as part of the Council’s new bespoke employee benefits platform, supplied by provider My Staff Shop. The platform as a whole will enable employees to access discounts and retail offers, to help staff with their everyday expenditure.The cycle to work scheme has been launched to encourage more of Surrey County Council’s employees to cycle on their commute, as well as help to promote cycling to the wider local community. The Council also aimed to add to the range of employee benefits that it offers to staff.Employees can access bikes that cost more than £1,000, which is the typical limit for bikes available through cycle to work schemes. This therefore enables staff to choose either a pedal bike or a battery-powered ebike under the arrangement. The scheme also has no exit fees and can offer employees a saving of up to 47%.The cycle to work portal auto-fills the majority of the application form for employees and further allows scheme managers to set parameters, such as a maximum order value. Scheme managers are also able to approve applications and check their progress via the portal.The cycle to work scheme and new benefits platform were communicated to employees via the staff intranet and leaflets.Gabrielle Cousin, HR adviser, benefits and HR reward team at Surrey County Council, said: “[GCI is] always on hand to answer any questions regarding the scheme. Accessing information and using the GCI portal is a simple, smooth transition from the My Staff Shop platform. As GCI partners with local re-sellers, it’s good to provide more business to Surrey-based independent cycle shops. As an ongoing task, [GCI is] actively recruiting new re-sellers and a further 23 have been [signed] up to date.”
Amazon Google AI and us Are we too close for comfort
Aug 31 • Best places to sell your used electronics in 2019 Now playing: Watch this: Apple 3:28 CNET Smart Home Another way heart rhythm is useful is its potential for biometric identification. According to company Bionym, each person’s heart rhythm and EKG characteristics are unique. Bionym says that’s a result of differences in heart size, position, shape, muscle conductivity and so forth. The Nymi band, a watch-sized wearable device, is Bionym’s heart rhythm authentication solution.Bionym envisions the Nymi to serve as an ultra secure biometric key. Each Nymi is linked to only one individual user and their unique EKG identification profile. Worn by its owner, the Nymi is designed to offer authorized access for registered individuals only. Potential applications include controlling entry to sensitive office and laboratory facilities, along with tools, equipment and digital accounts. At the moment the Nymi appears targeted at enterprise customers, though it’s conceivable products like the Apple Watch 4 might one day offer similar features to ordinary consumers. 
Researchers at Shinshu University found distinctive patterns in footsteps. Shinshu University Following your footstepsIt’s easy to see how physical features like fingerprints can identify individuals, but what about the way you walk? Researchers at Shinshu University in Tokida, Japan have examined exactly that. They paid close attention to the way the foot makes contact with the ground while walking. Specifically they observed the timing of heel-strike, roll to forefoot and the final push off of the toes. They also recorded pressure levels exerted by the foot during the process.Ultimately the scientists found that these dynamic foot pressure patterns were unique to specific individuals. In fact, they were able to identify particular people using the technique with an accuracy rate of 99.6%. 
Enlarge ImageThe Motiv Ring may soon identify you by the way you walk. Sarah Tew/CNET Wearable technology company Motiv plans to take gait recognition out of the realm of pure research. Its $199 Motiv Ring is packed with numerous sensors to measure physical activity and biometric data. It tracks the steps you take, heart rate, and sleep time. Motiv also touts the Ring as a frictionless security device, one that provides 24/7 authentication for online accounts and transactions.Most interesting though, is the Ring’s WalkID feature. It uses the device’s internal accelerometer to figure out your individual gait, and determine whether you’re the person actually wearing the Ring. Currently the function remains in experimental beta. That said, it’s open to all Motiv Ring owners to give it a spin. reading • Amazon, Google, AI and us: Are we too close for comfort? These speakers don’t just listen out for your spoken commands. They can recognize, and distinguish between the voices of individual home members. That enables them to deliver personalized responses and results to match specific people. It’s a neat trick that comes in handy when you want a rundown of your personal schedule, tasks, shopping lists and so on. For this to work, you’ll need to train these systems. And that means providing them with numerous voice samples. The audio snippets then find their way to remote servers for comparison, identification, fast retrieval and storage.The eyes can’t lieLike fingerprint readers and voice recognition, iris-scanning technology has slowly crept into ordinary life. The iris, the pigmented area of the eye outside the pupil, is unique from person to person. Even individuals with the same genetic makeup — identical twins, for instance — will exhibit distinct iris patterns dissimilar from each other. That makes the allure of this identity confirmation technique strong. The potentially high speed and accuracy of iris scans is also compelling. A typical scanning system consists of a digital video camera, a low-energy infrared light emitter, plus hardware and software processing. The scanner emits an invisible IR light beam that illuminates the iris briefly. The system records the iris colors and other unique features. It then breaks the pattern down into a 256 byte code. An unknown individual’s iris code is compared with a database of enrolled codes. The entire scanning, matching and recognizing process takes just a few seconds. 
Enlarge ImageSamsung offered four different ways of unlocking the Galaxy S9 with biometrics — facial recognition, iris scanning, fingerprint scanning, and a combination of iris and face called Intelligent Scan. Andrew Hoyle/CNET Some consumer devices have included iris-scanning features for years. Samsung chose Qualcomm’s 3D Sonic fingerprint reader for the Galaxy S10, but the Samsung Galaxy S7, S8 and S9 phones all shipped with iris-based identification systems.In 2017, Qualcomm entered a license agreement with iris-based authentication company Eyelock. That could be a sign this access control method will soon find a home on Qualcomm mobile processors and platforms. 
Enlarge ImageThe Apple Watch 4 can also function as an electrocardiogram. Sarah Tew/CNET Two hearts don’t beat as oneBasic heart rate monitors have been a standard feature of fitness trackers and smartwatches for years. A few new devices such as the Apple Watch 4, take things a step further. Instead of merely recording heart rate, they also can take electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) readings. This enhanced data allows the trackers to sense your heart rhythm. EKG data is useful for many reasons. The first is greater awareness of heart health. Armed with these upgraded sensors, wearable devices can detect and alert you of potentially dangerous situations. That includes abnormal or irregular heart rhythm and even atrial fibrillation. Google Assistant Alexa Artificial intelligence (AI) Amazon Privacy Google Microsoft Motorola Samsung Sony Apple OnePlus Tags Facial recognition is going to be everywhere • Comments See All Share your voice Aug 31 • iPhone 11, Apple Watch 5 and more: The final rumors Aug 31 • iPhone XR vs. iPhone 8 Plus: Which iPhone should you buy? 2 Aug 31 • Your phone screen is gross. Here’s how to clean it Smart Home Iris scanning is a powerful identification tool. Getty Images Computers aren’t just getting smarter, they’re studying us more closely too. Whether it’s in the name of public safety, fraud protection or simple convenience, we’re feeding AI systems details that identify us and track our comings and goings.
This is part of a CNET special report exploring the benefits and pitfalls of facial recognition. CNET Equipped with electronic ears, eyes and brains, a sea of devices now monitor human activity and characteristics. The list includes everything from smart speakers, laptops and phones, to even doorbells and locks. You may not have noticed this trend, but it’s real, and growing. CNET has spent the last two weeks documenting the current state of facial recognition technology, but that’s just one method of gathering data directly from your person. Here are a few examples of how other biometric technologies have seeped into the fabric of daily life, and where things could go next. Fingerprint readers everywhere Devices that can read, capture and match fingerprints to specific individuals have been with us for decades. In 1969, the FBI began looking at ways computers could help facilitate fingerprint identification. Back then the idea was to free as many FBI staff members as possible from this tedious, labor-intensive task. By 1975 the Bureau’s efforts, aided by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, led to a functional fingerprint scanner prototype based on capacitive sensors.Now fast forward to 2013. That’s when biometrics truly became mainstream, designed for consumer convenience, not only serious crime fighting. That year Apple integrated its Touch ID fingerprint reader into the iPhone 6, 6 Plus, and 5S. It also placed the security system in its new iPad models. 
Enlarge ImageApple’s Touch ID system for the iPhone. Josh Miller/CNET Since then both Google and Microsoft have launched similar identification solutions. Examples include Pixel Imprint for Google’s Pixel phones, and Windows Hello available on Microsoft Surface laptops and tablets. Other device makers have adopted fingerprint reader technology as well. On this list of high-end handsets are the Motorola G7, OnePlus 6T, Samsung Galaxy S10, and Sony’s Xperia XZ3.All these phones, save the OnePlus 6T and Galaxy S10, use capacitive readers. They harness the same principle that the FBI did to build its early fingerprint scanner. Capacitors in the scanner measure fingertips for slight differences in electrical conductivity. The scanner then forms a finger ridge pattern from these differences.
Enlarge ImageThe ultrasonic fingerprint reader on the Samsung Galaxy S10. John Kim/CNET The OnePlus 6T is quite different. Its sensor is optical, essentially a tiny camera that takes photos of fingertips. Since it creates flat, 2D images, this reader is relatively easy to fool. Not so with the Galaxy S10’s ultrasonic sensor. The S10 actively pings your finger with sound waves when it’s touched, These waves bounce off skin and back to the reader for analysis. With that data, it constructs a detailed 3D image that’s tougher to duplicate or spoof. Enlarge ImageAmazon Alexa and Google Assistant are smart enough to recognize individual people by their voice. CNET They know your voiceThe smart speaker’s rise in popularity is undeniable. The number of US smart speaker users is expected to swell to 76.5 million by 2020. According to eMarketer, that’s up from 16 million in 2016, a compounded annual growth rate of 47.9%. Amazon’s Echo products with Alexa onboard still represent the lion’s share of these gadgets. Google Assistant though is in hot pursuit. And as the companies compete for market share, the capabilities of both voice assistants has steadily increased. 
Kashmir capital readies for Eid after protest broken up
In this picture taken on 9 August, 2019 a security personnel stands guard on a street in Srinagar as widespread restrictions on movement and a telecommunications blackout remained in place after the Indian government stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its autonomy. Photo: AFPBig queues formed in Indian-administered Kashmir’s main city on Saturday outside cash machines and food stores as authorities eased a crippling curfew to let the Himalayan region prepare for a major Muslim festival, residents said.But huge numbers of troops remained on the streets a day after security forces used tear gas to break up a demonstration by about 8,000 people against the government’s move to revoke Kashmir’s autonomy, they added.The Eid al-Adha festival on Monday looms as the next big test for the week-old Indian lockdown in the Muslim-majority region, where the government has ended decades-old rights to property and jobs for local Kashmiris.Internet and phone lines have been cut and curfew restrictions have been imposed to prevent unrest over the constitutional move which prime minister Narendra Modi said was needed to bring peace and prosperity to the troubled region.More cars and pedestrians were on the streets Saturday.A woman stands next to a broken window of her house that was allegedly damaged by Indian security personnel after clashes between protesters and security forces during restrictions after the scrapping of the special constitutional status for Kashmir by the government in Srinagar, 10 August, 2019. Photo: Reuters”We can do more but it is still tough, everyone is closely watched,” said one resident. “Our lives are still dominated by razor wire and checkpoints.””Bank machines are running out of cash so there are queues at every machine where notes may be available. People also need food for Eid,” added a second resident.Trains halted Modi said in a nationwide speech this week that Kashmir people would have “no problem” for the festival.But media reports said authorities would only decide Sunday whether restrictions would be eased for what is one of the most important Muslim festivals of the year.After weekly prayers on Friday, about 8,000 people gathered for a protest on the edge of Srinagar that was broken up by security forces with tear gas and shotgun pellets, residents said.”About 12 people were hurt, but none seriously,” said one witness.The home ministry denied any protest took place.In this picture taken on 9 August, 2019 security personnel stand guard on a street in downtown Srinagar as widespread restrictions on movement and a telecommunications blackout remained in place after the Indian government stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its autonomy. / AFPKashmir has been split between India and Pakistan since their independence in 1947. Both have fought two wars over the former kingdom. An insurgency against New Delhi’s rule in Indian-administered Kashmir has claimed tens of thousands of lives in the past three decades.Islamabad has been infuriated by New Delhi’s moves and has expelled the Indian ambassador and halted the little bilateral trade between the arch-rivals.Pakistani ministers have also halted cross-border transport services and the last trains and buses crossed the frontier on Saturday.The last Friendship bus left New Delhi early Saturday carrying just two passengers for the trip to the Pakistani city of Lahore.The service had been running since 1999 except for a two-year suspension after a militant attack on the Indian parliament in 2001 carried out by two Pakistan-based groups.In this photo taken late on 9 August, 2019, police personnel check luggages of travelers of the Thar express at Bhagat ki Kothi railway station in Jodhpur. The last Thar Express train left the Rajasthan city of Jodhpur early 10 August but had to wait more than 12 hours to get clearance to cross the border, officials said. Photo: AFPA Pakistan Tourism Department official in Lahore told AFP: “Today was the last day for the Friendship bus service. The bus service is suspended until further notice, we are making refunds to all passengers.”The last Thar Express train also left the Rajasthan city of Jodhpur early Saturday but had to wait more than 12 hours to get clearance to cross the border, officials said.The train has run every Friday night since 2006 from Jodhpur to Karachi. It is one of two rail services to cross the frontier between the rival states. The Samjhauta Express was halted on Thursday by Pakistan’s railways minister Sheikh Rasheed.”As long as I am railway minister, the Samjhauta Express and the Thar Express will not operate,” he vowed to reporters on Saturday.
Cold wave conditions likely to reduce
Kolkata: The prevailing cold wave in the city and other South Bengal districts may reduce by the end of the month, predicts the Regional Meteorological Centre at Alipore.According to a senior Met department official, the mercury in the city is expected soar up by January end. The lowest temperatures in Kolkata and adjoining districts may hover around 12-14 degree Celsius for the next couple of days. The cold spell returned due to the constant flow of the north-westerly. It intensified in South Bengal districts around three days ago taking the temperature down by a few notches. Also Read – 3 injured, flight, train services hit as rains lash BengalOn last Thursday, the temperature dipped to 12 degree Celsius because of a low pressure trough created over Bihar constantly injecting moisture into Bengal. Though the temperature slightly shot up, the overall winter chill remained unchanged. However, the weather department official has not clearly mentioned whether the cold condition is going to withdraw from the city by the beginning of the next month. There is an occasional rise and fall in the temperature during this time of the year but it is difficult to announce if the winter is coming to an end in the early next month, the weather official maintained. The MeT office also predicted that people will witness misty mornings in the next few days but there is no prediction of rainfall.
Democrats Urge Obama to Recess Appoint New FHFA Director
Share Democrats Urge Obama to Recess Appoint New FHFA Director Twenty-eight California Democrats urged President “”Barack Obama””:http://www.whitehouse.gov/administration/president-obama Wednesday to sidestep Congress by recess-appointing another agency director ├â┬ó├óÔÇÜ┬¼├óÔé¼┼ô this time for the “”Federal Housing Finance Agency””:http://www.fhfa.gov/ (FHFA).[IMAGE]Rep. “”Dennis Cardoza””:http://cardoza.house.gov/ (D-Mercel), a frequent critic of current FHFA acting director Edward DeMarco, led the way with an open letter that called on the president to “”put in place a permanent FHFA director”” despite resistance from lawmakers.””For two and a half years, Senate Republicans have been blocking the appointment of this position, causing there to be no permanent Director,”” the letter said. “”The current economic crisis began in the housing market and our economic recovery [COLUMN_BREAK]is dependent on the important work pending before the FHFA.””Democratic signers criticized the FHFA for failing to assist more homeowners and prevent foreclosures, beginning with an energy program described by the members of Congress as one that would lower energy payments and help Americans afford their mortgages.””FHFA has consistently and erroneously interpreted its mandate far too narrowly and as such has failed to take adequate action to help homeowners,”” the signers added.Last week Obama bypassed lawmakers and Republican opposition by recess-appointing Richard Cordray director of the “”Consumer Financial Protection Bureau””:http://www.consumerfinance.gov/ and several others to board roles with the National Labor Relations Board ├â┬ó├óÔÇÜ┬¼├óÔé¼┼ô moves that earned ire from the right and across the industry.DeMarco remains in the sight of many Democrats for reportedly resisting efforts by the Obama administration to expand government assistance programs for homeowners.Sources speaking with _MReport_ for past stories said that the acting director pushed back on expansions for the Home Affordable Refinance Program, fearing further losses to “”Fannie Mae””:http://www.fanniemae.com/portal/index.html and “”Freddie Mac””:http://www.freddiemac.com/.Cardoza first went on the offensive last fall when he called on Obama to replace DeMarco with a new director. Agents & Brokers Attorneys & Title Companies Barack Obama Edward DeMarco Fannie Mae FHFA Freddie Mac HARP Housing Affordability Lenders & Servicers Processing Service Providers 2012-01-11 Ryan Schuette
January 11, 2012 404 Views in Government, Origination, Secondary Market, Servicing
Cardinals expect improving Murphy to contribute ri
Cardinals expect improving Murphy to contribute right away Acho should be a big help to the Cardinals, who have been lacking at the linebacker position for the past few seasons.As a rookie, Acho could be at risk for succumbing to the sheer volume and intensity of an NFL crowd. However, having played for the University of Texas in several big games a season, Acho should be just fine. Nevada officials reach out to D-backs on potential relocation Top Stories What an MLB source said about the D-backs’ trade haul for Greinke
D-backs president Derrick Hall: Franchise ‘still focused on Arizona’ 0 Comments Share Cardinals fourth round pick Sam Acho said he is excited to join a team that he feels can contend for a Super Bowl every year.In a Thursday interview with Sports 620 KTAR’s Gambo and Ash, Acho said the Cardinals are a great team to be a part of and that he is looking forward to helping the team out, no matter where he is at on the field.“When I talked to some of the coaches they mentioned they are going to have me at outside linebacker and kind of move me around a little bit to see where I fit best,” Acho said.
The first play in the video shows Cooper pulling t
The first play in the video shows Cooper pulling through the guard/tackle gap on the strong side of the line.We can see him get back cleanly in his pull and then accelerate through the hole to meet and stand up the linebacker, allowing the running back a clear path in his running lane.When you talk about footwork for a guard, you are talking about similar attributes that you want for cornerbacks — you want a guy that can change direction on a dime without losing his balance.When pulling, getting out in front to lead, or getting out in front of screens, Cooper is a unique talent, and that ability is something that had to draw Cardinals GM Steve Keim, head coach Bruce Arians and company to him.When talking about feet in the passing game, there are numerous ways to describe what you are looking for in an interior blocker, but I think this end zone camera view shows what you want in a guard. Derrick Hall satisfied with D-backs’ buying and selling What we see here is Cooper reaching on a player shaded on the outside shoulder of the center, and he gets into him squarely. That shows an amazing initial quickness to win. But what’s more impressive is that he keeps his feet moving and when the defensive tackle that’s shaded on the opposite guard loops around in the defensive line stunt, Cooper is able to pass off his initial man to the center and get into the other defender. The 5: Takeaways from the Coyotes’ introduction of Alex Meruelo Former Cardinals kicker Phil Dawson retires 0 Comments Share What this will do in the Arians offense is allow Carson Palmer to get into his drop and work through his progressions while climbing up in the pocket. He won’t have to make sudden moves or changes, but will be able to subtly creep up the ladder and stand tall.This will in turn take pressure off the tackles, as it will allow them to begin to push pass rushers past Palmer, as opposed to pushing them into Palmer.What Cooper brings to the table is really a special mix of athleticism and strength.He is able to provide a power base in pass protection that will allow a true pocket to form around the quarterback. In the run game, the blend of power and speed makes him more like a fullback at the guard position, as he can lead block on nearly any outside run as a pulling guard.The biggest success in this pick though is that it shows Keim is not afraid to go against the grain.Too often, and something I have preached about not getting your hopes up for, teams pass on interior offensive linemen because they don’t provide “value”. The problem is the value doesn’t lie within a tangible stat, so the totality of their impact is based on the play of others. Watch the two plays at the 2:05 mark, and notice that Cooper’s man barely crosses the line of scrimmage in pass sets — again, ignore the terrible quarterback. Grace expects Greinke trade to have emotional impact
Top Stories Probably the most consistent aspect that shows up on the Jonathan Cooper film over and over again (aside from terrible quarterback play) is that when he wins in the passing game, he wins at the line of scrimmage or a yard or two back.One of the biggest issues I’ve had with the Cardinals is the lack of push they get in pass protection, allowing the interior of the defense to push them back immediately off the snap of the ball and not allowing the quarterback to move up in the pocket.Cooper will put a stop to that, and honestly he does this much better than any other guard in the draft, so this had to be a huge point of emphasis for Keim and Arians. Well we saw the impact that was had on this team when the offensive line was poor — zero running game, an often injured quarterback and then wildly ineffective quarterback play — all as a result of the line being unable to provide time for those “value” players to make “value” plays.The impact Cooper has won’t show up on the stat sheet next to his name, but it will allow Larry Fitzgerald, Carson Palmer and Rashard Mendenhall to have impact stats next to theirs. – / 48 His ability to not only to not only move in space but win with power at the point of attack makes him what you would call the total package as a guard prospect. By the time the Arizona Cardinals announced the pick of North Carolina guard Jonathan Cooper, there was little doubt that he had overtaken Alabama’s Chance Warmack as the number one guard prospect in this draft class.What does Cooper possess that Warmack doesn’t?Glad you asked.When Cooper moves in space, he does so with the grace of a ballerina, but with the ability to drop the hammer and hit an opponent like a Mack truck. I know that’s a lot of hyperbole, so let’s take a look at what I mean. You watch him on this simple smash play double team the defensive tackle and drive him off the ball, then move to the oncoming linebacker allowing the running back an untouched lane to the end zone.You watch him on a power play through the left side and he reaches the middle linebacker on the second level and drives him away so he can’t make a play.
As the chill of autumn approaches the Fireplace B
As the chill of autumn approaches, the Fireplace Butlers at Taj Boston are readying the landmark hotel’s wood-burning fireplaces for the opening of Fireside Season on October 15. Guest suites and several executive meeting rooms at the hotel at Arlington and Newbury streets overlooking the Public Garden feature the welcoming fireplaces, which include complimentary services of a Fireplace Butler, who will lay and light your preferred wood fire until April 1, 2010.New this year is the offer of an in-suite “Fireside Tailgate” for all sports fans who wish to enjoy the coziest of creature comforts while their team plays, and the Fireside Dining event planner, who will arrange every detail for your private fireside event in a residential-style townhouse-inspired space.Fireside Tailgate at Taj Boston Why brave the elements to see your favorite team in action? At Taj Boston, you can enjoy an in-room “tailgate” from October 15 through April 1 complete with a delectable chef-prepared picnic and beverages as you lounge by the wood-burning fire and watch your game of choice on your 42-inch flat screen television.Fireside Tailgate in-room menu selections include: Clam chowder Crab cakes Chicken pot pie Chicken biryani Kobe beef burger with house-made fries Taj Boston Cream Pie Champagne, wine or beer Rates for a one-night Fireside Tailgate Suite at Taj Boston begin at $480 and include accommodations in a junior suite with wood-burning fireplace, the services of a Fireplace Butler and your preferred selection from the Firewood Menu, an in-room “picnic” for two from In-room Dining ($150 credit; additional charges will be billed to guest folio).Fireside Private Dining Several townhouse-style meeting rooms at Taj Boston offer a gracious setting for intimate occasions complete with the inviting ambience of a wood-burning fireplace. Perfect for engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, bridal and baby showers, birthdays and anniversary celebrations, or a refined executive board meeting, with chef-designed menus and wine pairings customized to your personal preferences. All such events include the services of the Fireplace Butler to prepare your favorite wood-burning fire. Contact Josephine Gandolfo, the Taj Boston Fireside Dining Event Planner, for more information, Josephine.gandolfo@tajhotels.com.Taj Boston Firewood Menu The Fireplace Butler will lay and light the wood fire of your choice from these selections:Birch Wood: Birch produces a strong heat and burns quickly, creating a warm and cozy interlude before an evening’s entertainment on the townCherry Wood: Fragrant and slow burning, the glowing colors from this fire will enhance your In-Room Dining experienceOak Wood: A lightly scented, long-burning wood, oak produces a comforting, cozy warmth for a long winter’s nightMaple Wood: The sweet aroma of maple evokes the essence of a New England winter in the heart of BostonTaj Blend: An off-the-menu proprietary combination of woods for a most delightful and aromatic firewww.tajhotels.com/boston
Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts is thrilled to ann
Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts is thrilled to announce the arrival of Four Seasons Hotel Firenze and Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus. Flo and Bo, as they are affectionately known, join big sisters Four Seasons Hotel Milan and Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet as the proud parent’s second properties in Italy and Turkey.Despite their later arrival, the hotels are actually older than their siblings due to an extraordinary long gestation period.Comprising two Renaissance palaces, the Palazzo della Gherardesca and the Conventino, Four Seasons Hotel Firenze’s birth is over 500 years in the making. In a former life, the building was occupied by a Pope, five centuries of Florentine nobility and a Viceroy of Egypt. Now, the Hotel welcomes guests for the opportunity to view rare 15th -19th century artworks in their original context and to linger in the Giardino della Gherardesca, the city’s largest private garden.An Ottoman palace, Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus took nearly 200 years to come to fruition. Previously, the palace was a summer retreat for the Ottoman elite. The “new” Hotel welcomes guests to enjoy the rich history of the City – once the capital of the Roman, Byzantine, Latin and Ottoman empires – from a waterfront location. Guests wishing to keep it all in the family can travel between the Bosphorus and Sultanahmet via private boat.The newly unveiled hotels are welcomed to the Four Seasons family by 76 “siblings” in 32 countries around the world. Want to send your congratulations? Visit Four Seasons Hotel Firenze and Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus to see the new additions.
Recent Comments