2 Electric Shock Victims Out of Danger
Georgia Blazers basketball coach Nathaniel Patten, father of Edward Grimes, 19, popularly known as Trokon on Warren Street (Monrovia), who suffered an electric shock, along with his manager, Charles Swaray, last week Wednesday, are out of danger.“My son Trokon is back home,” Coach Patten told the Daily Observer last Friday. “He is doing fine.” The incident took place on last Wednesday, April 8, when Trokon attempted to remove live wires that had knocked his manager off, from his body and he was also knocked down.Swaray, according to a woman who only identified herself as his mother said, “I spoke to my son and he is doing fine.” Swaray was admitted at the S. D. Cooper Clinic while Trokon was admitted at the JFK Memorial Hospital. The Daily Observer learned that Swaray was still under observation last Friday, because he could not move two of his fingers.Coach Patten, who took Georgia Blazers to the last basketball championship, said, “When the incident happened and immediately I got the news I was sure that my son would be alright.” He said his faith as a Christian gave him the assurance that his son and his manager would be out of danger.“Trokon has been working with Swaray for the last four years,” Coach Patten said, “and they have been doing fine. Trokon is being taught as an electrician.”He explained that what happened last Wednesday was an accident. Swaray owns a generator for his cold water business, and it was during a process to connect some wires that he was knocked off, and became unconscious.When Trokon realized what had happened, additional information said he cut the power source of the generator, but did not realize that a nearby deep-freezer was still active, and according to Coach Patten it was when his son torched the freezer that he was knocked down and also lapsed into unconscious.He said because of being a dutiful son, the whole community prayed for his son, along with his manager. “I’m thankful to God that everything worked well,” Coach Patten told the Daily Observer.Share this:Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
USAID-LGSA Chief of Party, Dr. Yohannes Gebremebhin -USAID-LGSA Chief of Party tells first Geomatics Education Program studentsAs fear resonates that Liberia’s peace may likely be undermined as a result of land conflicts, the Chief of Party (CoP) of USAID-Land Governance Support Activity (LGSA) Dr. Yohannes Gebremebhin says Liberia’s human resources gap in the surveying profession is often filled by unregistered and unlicensed surveyors who do not have any formal training.Dr. Gebremebhin said the situation poses serious challenges to the Liberia Land Authority (LLA) on the highest technical, professional and ethical standards.He said the country currently has 99 licensed land surveyors out of which eight hold college degrees and the rest are high school graduates.The USAID-LGSA Chief of Party made the assertion on Thursday, February 21, at the official launch of the USAID-funded Geomatics Education Program (GEP), which was hosted at the Forestry Training Institute (FTI), in Tubmanburg, Bomi County.The launch also witnessed 30 persons from the 15 counties and who were recruited through a highly competitive process that involved entrance tests and interviews to the program, according to Gebremebhin.The GEP is a 10-month training program that seeks to train students in geomatics education, with the goal of producing survey technicians that will go on to support the Liberian land sector. Graduates are awarded technical level certificates.Gebremebhin further said only 13 of the 99 surveyors were graduates of the former Ministry of Lands, Mines and Energy Technical Surveying School that was also hosted in Bomi County.“The school ceased its operations in the early 1980s and there has not been any formal surveying education in the country since then,’” the USAID-LGSA Chief of Party said. “Most surveyors that are currently practicing surveying lack sufficient exposure to modern survey methods that are conducted with current technology,” he said.According to Gebremebhin, the GEP’s aim is to fill the void informal surveying education and enhance the profession by producing a new breed of surveyors that would be trained in modern methods, tools, and technologies and would be able to serve as survey technicians in accordance with “international best practices.”“LGSA views the rather substantial investment, which is being made by USAID in these students and their education, as a critical factor not only in building modern surveying and mapping (geomatics) capacity in Liberia but also in laying a solid foundation upon which a functioning land administration system can be built,” the Chief of Party emphasized.He urged stakeholders to take a long-term perspective and be supportive of “actions that have the potential to ensure the continuity and sustainability of the program as well as its further development to an advanced level.”
Students of USAID-funded Geomatics Education Program (GEP)In his launching remarks, USAID’s Mission Director Anthony Chan said the exercise represents a major step toward professionalizing land survey and mapping in Liberia, “and in a sense is one of the first steps in realizing the vision that is implicit in the passage of the Land Rights Law.”To the students, Chan said, “Remember that if you approach the profession you have chosen with a strong work ethic and a commitment to integrity, you will make your families proud, you will make USAID proud to have supported you, and you will make your fellow Liberians proud of the good work that surveyors can do.”“The program will also work to inculcate in the students the value of adhering to the highest professional and ethical standards in all that you will do,” Chan indicated.Chan reminded his audience that land survey and mapping are core aspects of a fair and efficient land administration system with far-reaching consequences for the country. “They impact land tenure security, property tax assessment, land use planning and zoning, and the implementation of the Land Rights Law.”“Securing land tenure,” he said, “is critical for the development of a robust financial sector supporting products like a home mortgage, housing development, improved credit availability and is essential if Liberia is to realize its potential in agriculture.”He added that it was important that land survey and mapping is conducted in ways that prevent or minimize the risks of misinterpretation by, and conflict among, property owners and public authorities.Chan said for Liberia to attain this goal, “the survey and mapping process must comply with strictly defined and predictable standards so as to achieve accuracy and timely reporting and certification of survey and mapping results.”“The successful adoption and implementation of these standards will, of course, depend on the degree to which Liberia has qualified and properly trained surveyors,” said Chan.Share this:Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
The B.C. Cancer Agency has taken a major step forward in its plans for a cancer centre in the north.On Friday, the agency announced a partnership with Plenary Health, to build the 5,000 square-metre facility in Prince George.The partnership means Plenary has accepted a fixed-price agreement, to design, build, and maintain the project over a 30 year term.- Advertisement -The nearly $70 million project will include two linear accelerators (used in radiation therapy), one C.T. simulator, and a chemotherapy treatment unit, as well as general clinics and offices.Construction will be done in phases, with a final completion date scheduled for September of 2012.
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… armed trio escape with quantity of raw gold, loaded firearmThree masked gunmen carried out a daring robbery on a grocery shop on Sunday morning thereby escaping with an undisclosed quantity of raw gold and a licensed firearm at Rock Landing, Ekereku, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).The business is owned by Brazilian national Moses DaDilva. At the time of the incident, the 36-year-old shopkeeper, Vanessa Rodriguez was attending to business when a friend, Barry Constantine, a miner, visited her.Constantine is said to be a licensed firearm holder of a CZ 83 semi-automatic pistol # 067532.Reports are that between midnight and 01:00h on the day in question, three males armed with handguns pounced on the duo. This led to a scuffle between Constantine and two of the suspects who eventually managed to overpower him and relieve him of his loaded firearm.The gun-toting trio then held the man and the shopkeeper at gunpoint, demanding money and gold.Fearing for her life, the petrified woman quickly handed over all the cash and a quantity of raw gold to the bandits.Moments later, the gunmen discharged Constantine’s weapon three times into the air before making good their escape on foot.Hours later, the man and woman were able to travel out of the area and contact the Police who were informed of the incident.According to the Police, no arrests have been made, but investigations are currently underway.
FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The future of health care in Fort St. John and District, remains at the top of the New Year priority list for the Peace River North MLA.Pat Pimm remains confident the health committee working on that challenge has a new practice model for physicians near at hand.- Advertisement -When it comes to the full Peace Region priority, Mr. Pimm and Peace River South MLA, Mike Bernier, are on the same page, with their focus on jobs and for that reason LNG industry development. Mr. Bernier serves on the Cabinet Committee on Strong Economy, but last July he added a new responsibility, following his appointment as Minister of Education.
HOUSE Wine Bar and Tap Room in Letterkenny have devised an exciting and exclusive members only rewards programme.More than 800 members have joined including a number of well-known wine producers, writers and quite allot of Letterkenny locals. Approximately 200 places still remain available before the list will be closed.Joining up is completely free, and incentives include 20% Discount midweek, wine masterclasses, tastings and educational events of cocktails and our craft beer selection We LOVE our Members!!!You are an important part of our venue, creating a vibrant and connected community. More-over, you enjoy a wealth of benefits that puts the world of wines, craft beers and cocktails at your fingertips.To highlight our membership programme, we want to share these benefits with you… That’s right, we are going to provide you with special access so you can experience some of these benefits first hand!Our goal is to empower members of HOUSE Wine Bar & Tap Room Letterkenny to make decisions and trust their palates. Some superb wines, whiskey and craft beer selections, with an addition of our “weekly wine spotlight”HOUSE has also been shortlisted for “Best Wine Experience” by the Hotel & Catering Gold Medal Awards 2015, they recognise achievement and excellence in the Restaurant and Hospitality Industry through-out Ireland.HOUSE Wine Bar & Tap Room opened its doors to Donegal Valentines day 2015 and since has been serving up tasty globally recognised wines and craft beers with an Irish flair.“We are absolutely thrilled to be short-listed for an amazing award and we would like to thank all our customers and staff, we have a great team here at HOUSE” explained Shaun Manager of HOUSE.We wanted an exciting social venue where people can drink and enjoy great wine and cocktails at very attractive prices. Our wine list starts from €23 a bottle Sibarita’s Selection Cabernat Sauvignon a well-structured full bodied Sauvignon And represents excellent quality and value for money throughout. To Join our EXCLUSIVE programme email us on: housewinebarandtaproom@gmail.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/housewinebarandtaproomHOUSE VENUE DEVISE EXCLUSIVE MEMBERS REWARDS PROGRAMME was last modified: August 28th, 2015 by StephenShare this:Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window)Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window)Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)Click to share on Skype (Opens in new window)Click to print (Opens in new window)
TermonUlster Senior Ladies Semi- final Termon 1–10 Errigal Ciaran 1–6Termon survive late Errigal Ciaran ChallengeCurrent All Ireland champions Termon survived a late Errigal Ciaran onslaught in this entertaining Ulster semi-final played at Errigal Ciaran’s home grounds. While Errigal Ciaran’s team went into this game on the back of a 5–20 to no score quarter final victory over Glen from Co Derry Termon showed a lot of craft and skill to survive early pressure to only be three points to one down after ten minutes.Termon struggled to contain the lively Shannon Monaghan, Lycredia Quinn and the high fielding Geraldine Mc Ginley. Indeed Mc Ginley was a valuable contributor to virtually all of Errigal Ciaran’s scores.Termon were forced into two late starting changes when Petra and Grainne Mc Cafferty were deemed unfit to start already having lost Dara Kelly earlier in the season.Termon found themselves three points to one in arrears after ten minutes.Termon struggled but by the break went in two to the good with super scores from Maureen o Donnell, Olive Mc Cafferty, Roisin Mc Cafferty and Geraldine Mc Laughlin to lead by six points to four at the break despite Errigal Ciaran loosing Geraldine Mc Ginley to a yellow card on the 21 minute. Half Time Termon 0–6 Errigal Ciaran 0–4Errigal Ciaran regrouped in the second half with former Ulster star Peter Canavan’s daughters Claire and Aine very much to the fore. Disaster struck for Errigal Ciaran when Roisin Friel fired to the net following a move started in the Termon back line. Errigal Ciaran came storming back and following some hesitancy in the Termon defence Ailise Gormley toe poked a goal for Errigal Ciaran. Despite a lot of pressure and some near misses by the Errigal Ciaran’ s players Termon tacked on further points to run out winners by four points to set up a mouth watering Ulster final against old rivals Donaghmoyne on Saturday 31 October Final score Termon 1–10 Errigal Ciaran 1–6Best for Termon was Emer Gallagher, Laura Gallagher, and evergreen Maureen o Donnell with a five star performance delivered by Uk based Roisin Mc Cafferty.On this showing manager Francie Friels team will have to improve if Termon is to retain the Ulster Championship in 2015Errigal Ciaran were best served by Maria Canavan, and Lycrecia QuinnTermon Laura Gallagher, Olive Mc Cafferty, Lauren Mc Ilwaine, Lucy o Flynn, Maria Carr, Threase Mc Cafferty, Emer Gallagher, Shannon mc Groddy and Nicole mc Laughlin.Roisin Friel, Roisin Mc Cafferty, Maeve Mc Daid, Maureen o Donnell, Geraldine Mc Laughlin, Niamh Friel. Subs used Petra Mc Cafferty, Emly o FlynnErrigal Ciaran Grainne Mc Anenly, Julia Mallon, Niamh Kelly, Ailise Mc Roary, Claire Canavan, Kelly mc Roary, Callin Mc Cann, Shannon Quinn and Geraldine Mc Ginley. Aine Canavan Lycrecia Quinn Selena Oguz, Shannon Monaghan, Maria Canavan and Meabh CorriganReferee Gerard Corrigan Co Down TERMON LADIES WIN EPIC BATTLE TO REACH ANOTHER ULSTER FINAL was last modified: October 18th, 2015 by John2Share this:Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window)Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window)Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)Click to share on Skype (Opens in new window)Click to print (Opens in new window)Tags:Termon ladies
DONEGAL rockers The Plea have announced a summer gig schedule.Following the success of their single ‘I Am The Miracle’ (you can watch that by clicking the video above) the band won’t make it home to Donegal for a gig. But they will be playing in Sligo.The band – formed by Ballyliffin brothers Denny and Dermot Doherty – is already taking the music industry by storm.The band have just finished recording their debut album with Chris Potter (The Verve, The Rolling Stones, U2) which will be released later this year.To celebrate, they’ve lined up a host of nationwide dates across June, July and August that will see them support the likes of Ash, Fred and The Riptide Movement. In addition to that, they will make appearances at The Temple House Festival, Oxegen and Glasgowbury. Those dates in full:June 1 Arts Centre, Wexford (w/ Fred)June 2 The Spirit Store, Dundalk (w/ Fred)June 6 Whelans (w/ Ash)June 7 Playhouse, Portrush (w/ Ash)June 8 Belfast Empire (w/ Ash) June 12 Temple House Festival, SligoJuly 8 -10 Oxegen (day TBC)July 23 GlasgowburyAug 5 Whelans (w/ The Riptide Movement). DDTV VIDEO: DONEGAL ROCKERS ‘THE PLEA’ ANNOUNCE TOUR was last modified: May 26th, 2011 by gregShare this:Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window)Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window)Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)Click to share on Skype (Opens in new window)Click to print (Opens in new window)Tags:BallyliffinSummer TourThe Plea
Would you love the chance to get up close and personal with dolphins?Are you passionate about marine wildlife and conservation?And how about a trip to Australia on top to get hands on experience in a world class marine park. Well RTÉ wants you!!Blue Zoo the ULTIMATE MARINE WILDLIFE Adventure Documentary Series is set to commence principal photography with Air Pig Productions, David Atkins Enterprises, Australian television and RTÉ Young People’s Ireland in Australia in October of 2013.Over seven weeks filming in New South Wales Blue Zoo will see Australian and Irish teens work and train together at a marine wildlife park with dolphins, seals and turtles who have been rescued and rehabilitated or born into human care at the park.Blue Zoo is looking for 14 – 15 year olds who are motivated to make the world a better place, who love to be challenged and be part of a team and have a genuine interest in conservation. Rookies need to be available to travel to Australia for seven weeks of filming. Do you have what it takes to be one of our MARINE 8 Rookies?Exciting, dramatic and detailed observational documentary stories will be set within a format structure which will see the teens train dolphins and seals, take part in rescue operations, help overhaul the park and learn new skills in bootcamp training sessions –this is just part of what our Marine 8 Rookies will get from this experience.If this is your dream then Blue Zoo is dying to hear from you!To apply you must be 14-15. We want to hear all about why this is your dream in 100 words or less and you can upload a short video about yourself too – so log onto www.bluezootv.com.au and fill out your application form. Get writing now – you never know you might be on your way on a fully paid trip to Australia very soon!!!CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS SEPTEMBER 6th 2013 ONLY OPEN TO APPLICANTS FROM IRELAND AND AUSTRALIATV COMPANY SENDS OUT SOS TO DONEGAL TEENS FOR AUSTRALIAN ADVENTURE was last modified: August 13th, 2013 by StephenShare this:Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window)Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window)Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)Click to share on Skype (Opens in new window)Click to print (Opens in new window)Tags:AustraliaDonegal teenagersProgrammeTV
Tags: Athletic BilbaoAtletico Madridbarcelonareal madridSpanish La Liga Villarreal vs Deportivo AlavesEstadio de la Ceramica, VillarrealFriday, 25-10-2019 @10pmFollowing a 2-1 away defeat to newly-promoted Osasuna before the international break, Villarreal needed to respond against Espanyol on Matchday 9 and they didn’t disappoint, grinding out an important three points at RCDE Stadium 0-1 thanks to an early strike from Karl Toko Ekambi and a number of fine saves from keeper Asenjo.El Submarino Amarillo crept up to 7th in the La Liga table as a result where they sit just a couple of points behind the Champions League places, and they can move into the top four this Friday evening, albeit temporarily, if they can follow up at home to Alaves. Javier Calleja’s side are solid favourites with the bookies to do just that – and it’s easy to see why based on their excellent form at Estadio de la Ceramica and Alaves’ prolonged struggles on the road.Villarreal’s first home game of the season was a sloppy affair as they tossed away a two goal advantage to draw 4-4 with Granada, but Javier Calleja’s men haven’t put a foot wrong since at Ceramica.Following a credible 2-2 draw against Real Madrid on Matchday 3, Villarreal have gone onto comprehensive victories against Valladolid (2-0) and Real Betis (5-1), extending their unbeaten home run in La Liga to nine matches.2nd March was the last time that Villarreal tasted defeat in front of their own supporters and ironically, that reversal came against this Friday’s opponents Alaves, who have enjoyed success in the last three league meetings between the pair, via a 2-1 scoreline on each occasion.It’s perhaps unwise to read too much into last season’s two encounters though. After all, Villarreal endured a pretty miserable campaign in 2018/19 and have clearly improved this term, whilst Alaves can’t buy a win on their travels at present.Babazorros have picked up just a single point from their four away matches this season (1-1 vs Getafe) and are now without a win in eight on the road, losing six of those outings and conceding 16 goals in total.Whilst Alaves will be in good spirits after securing a second consecutive 2-0 home victory against Celta Vigo at the weekend, which inched them up to 14th in the standings, it’s unlikely that Asier Garitano’s side will match that level of performance here if recent away performances are anything to go by.And the hosts would be difficult to oppose at Ceramica against most teams at the moment. After smashing in 13 goals in their four home games so far this season, they should relish the task this Friday against an Alaves back line who are playing with zero confidence or cohesion away from Mendizorroza.Leganes vs MallorcaEstadio Municipal de Burtarque, LeganesSaturday, 26-10-2019 @2pmJunior Lago was the early hero for Mallorca on Matchday 9 as Los Bermellones overcame Real Madrid 1-0 at Son Moix. The Ivorian netted a tremendous low curling shot just seven minutes in to the contest and it proved enough as the Balearic Islanders held on to inflict a huge upset – and in turn move out of the La Liga relegation zone.It’s now two victories and two clean sheets on the spin for Mallorca following a 2-0 home success over Espanyol before the international break, and Vicente Moreno’s side have an excellent chance to make it three wins in a row this weekend when they face bottom club Leganes at Butarque.Lega are rooted to the foot of La Liga and seven points behind the safety line after a 2-0 loss at Getafe on Matchday 9 – their seventh reverse already of what has been a miserable campaign to date.The result led to Mauricio Pellegrino’s resignation on Monday and Los Pepineros find themselves in complete disarray heading into this weekend’s clash. Fans will hope that a change in management provokes an immediate response as can often be the case in football, but that doesn’t justify why the hosts have been chalked up as odds-on favourites for this encounter.Mallorca have of course lost all three of their away games since returning to the Spanish top flight and each defeat has been by a comprehensive two goal margin.Nonetheless, Leganes are by far the worst team they are set to face on their travels so far and confidence in the Mallorca camp will be sky high after beating Los Blancos at the weekend.Stretching back to last season which ended with a whimper for the hosts, Lega have now won just one of their last 17 La Liga matches, losing 11, and they are without a victory in nine outings at Butarque, losing six.Real Valladolid vs EibarEstadio Municipal Jose Zorrilla, ValladolidSaturday, 26-10-2019 @7:30pmThe fact that keeper Jordi Masip won man of the match at the weekend tells you that Valladolid had to ride their luck to earn a point against Athletic Bilbao at San Mames, but the result extended what has been an extremely solid start to the campaign for Pucela who have lost just twice in their opening nine matches.Sergio’s side deservedly avoided the drop in 2018/19 and will be looking to achieve a mid-table finish this time around, a feat well within their grasp based on their tenacious displays so far.Valladolid will be keen to start turning some of their draws into wins though and this weekend’s fixture against Eibar presents the Castile and Leon outfit with a decent opportunity to bag their first home victory of the season after three consecutive stalemates at Jose Zorrilla.Valladolid’s effort at home last time out was easily their best as they grafted their way to a 0-0 scoreline against giants Atletico Madrid, and Pucela should appreciate the drop in quality of opposition on Matchday 10 as they welcome an Eibar side who have been toiling on the road for some time.With three draws and two defeats from five away outings this season, Los Armeros continue firing blanks on their travels and they have now won just one of their last 20 La Liga away matches, losing nine.Jose Luis Mendilibar’s men have also failed to score in four of their last eight away and, for the obvious reasons outlined, rate as atrocious value for this Saturday’s encounter at around the 2/1 mark. A comprehensive 0-3 home defeat to Barcelona last weekend will have done little for Eibar’s morale either, as they drop to 16th in the table, two points behind the 12th placed hosts.Of course, Valladolid have to prove that they are more than just draw specialists and a meagre tally of eight goals scored this season (including two from three outings at home) is slightly off-putting.Atletico Madrid vs Athletic BilaboEstadio Wanda Metropolitano, MadridSaturday, 26-10-2019 @10pmSaturday night’s clash at Wanda Metropolitano brings together the two sides who share the best defensive record in La Liga so far this season.Atletico Madrid and Athletic Bilbao have conceded just five goals apiece in their nine matches played, but both are struggling to capitalise going forward with each registering just eight times in total.Unsurprisingly, the teams have each posted four draws already this term due to their lack of cutting edge, and a similar result would not surprise this weekend with another low scoring affair anticipated.It’s the hosts though who are undoubtedly in better shape form-wise, and they go into Saturday’s game defending a lengthy unbeaten run at Wanda and a dominant head to head record against Athletic Club from the sides’ recent meetings in Madrid.Tuesday’s slender 1-0 home victory in the Champions League against Bayer Leverkusen epitomised how unconvincing Atleti have been this season and how they generally seem to make hard work of most things compared to the other top teams in Spain.Nonetheless, Diego Simeone’s men got the job done to put themselves in a commanding position to qualify for the knockout phase and the result extended Los Rojiblancos’ unbeaten stretch at Wanda to 15 matches in all competitions (W 10, D5).In terms of domestic matters, Simeone’s side have been frustrated by their four draws so far (including stalemates in their last three home outings) however four wins and just one defeat from their other five fixtures mean they are still well placed in 5th, just three points behind leaders Barcelona.Atleti have to start winning more consistently if they are going to seriously challenge the defending champions this season, but they’ll fancy their chances of moving onto Barca’s coattails with a victory over Bilbao on Saturday night. Madrid have won nine and drawn one of their last ten home matches against Bilbao, including a cosy 2-0 success at Wanda last term.With the visitors failing to win any of their four away matches this season (D3, L1) and now without a victory in their last four games overall (D2, L2), there’s little to suggest that this will be a successful trip for Gaizka Garitano’s charges, who have now slipped to 8th after their promising start in the opening weeks of the campaign.Celta Vigo vs ValenciaAbanca-Balaidos, VigoSunday, 27-10-2019 @2pmReal Sociedad responded brilliantly to consecutive defeats with a 3-1 home victory against Real Betis last weekend, the result lifting Txuri-urdinak back into the top four in the table. Imanol Alguacil’s side will be keen to strengthen their healthy early position when they visit Balaidos this weekend, to take on a Celta Vigo outfit whose 2018/19 struggles have continued into the new campaign.Strikes from Willian San Jose, Portu and an own goal from Raul Garcia comfortably turned things around for Sociedad last weekend after they fell behind early to Betis at Anoeta, and Txuri-urdinak will now be confident that they can string a good run together in the coming weeks, with fixtures against Granada, Levante and bottom side Leganes following up this Matchday 10 clash against Celta.Sociedad finished the 2018/19 season really strongly under Imanol Alguacil, so it’s not exactly surprising that the Basque outfit have got five wins under their belt already this term as they seek to challenge for the European places once again.With seven points and 13 places separating these teams, early season form clearly indicates that the visitors are the most likely to come away with all three points from this clash, although their record at Balaidos is slightly off-putting.Sociedad have won just three of their last 25 trips to Vigo, losing 11, and that’s perhaps why Alguacil’s charges only edge favouritism with the bookies here at just under the 6/4 mark.Celta finished out with the washing in 17th last season which is the exact position they occupy at the moment after picking up just nine points from nine games.Fran Escriba’s men have now won just one of their last seven La Liga fixtures following a disappointing 2-0 defeat away to Alaves on Matchday 9 and could easily find themselves in the relegation zone at the end of this weekend if they are unable to at least share the spoils.Nonetheless, Celta’s home results this term don’t actually read too badly compared to most of the other teams in the bottom half. Seven of their nine points have been gained in Galicia, with notable 1-0 victories posted over Valencia and Athletic Bilbao alongside a 1-1 draw with Espanyol.Their 0-2 defeat to Granada in mid-September was largely due to ill-discipline as opposed to poor performance after they had two men sent off in the first period, whilst their other reversal was an excusable one against Real Madrid (1-3) on the opening weekend.Granada vs Real BetisEstadio Nuevo Los Carmenes, GranadaSunday, 27-10-2019 @4pmIt’s been some return to La Liga thus far for Granada. Many predicted that clear-cut Segunda champions Osasuna were best placed to compete in the top flight out of the newly promoted teams, but it’s Nazaries who have been creating all the headlines.Diego Martinez’ side moved up to 3rd and within two points of leaders Barcelona after beating Los Rojillos last weekend, and they will be going all out on Matchday 10 to sink a Real Betis side who are toiling in the bottom three.It was a tight affair as anticipated at Los Carmenes on Matchday 9 between last season’s top two in Segunda, but it was Granada who got the better Osasuna 1-0 thanks to a clinical set-piece seven minutes before the break, converted by the head of towering Portuguese centre-back Domingos Duarte.The win marked Granada’s third successive home victory without concession following 2-0 and 1-0 triumphs over Barcelona and Leganes at Los Carmenes, and Diego Martinez’ men are currently in dreamland sitting 3rd heading into this weekend’s action.All five of Granada’s victories this term have been registered in their most recent seven games, with their only defeat in that run coming away to Real Madrid (4-2) before the international break. Whilst it’s early days, results and performances over the last few weeks fully justify Granada’s lofty position in the table and it’s likely they will be sticking around for the foreseeable future at least.Teams won’t be fancying the trip to Los Carmenes right now based on Granada’s aforementioned string of home wins and clean sheets, but it’s Real Betis who have to face the music this weekend amidst a dismal run of results.Los Verdiblancos suffered their fourth defeat of the campaign against Real Sociedad on Matchday 9, and the 3-1 result marked Betis’ third comprehensive loss from four outings on the road so far this term, following 5-2 ad 5-1 beatings against Barcelona and Villarreal respectively.The Andalusians have shown glimpses of quality going forward this season but have been hopeless at the back since Rubi took charge in the summer, and with 19 goals conceded across their nine matches they hold the worst defensive record in La Liga.13 of those goals have been shipped on the road, whilst they have only managed to score four times on their travels compared to eight goals netted at Benito Villamarin.Levante vs EspanyolEstadio Cuidad de Valencia, ValenciaSunday, 27-10-2019 @6pmPablo Machin’s first game in charge of Espanyol ended in defeat last weekend as Villarreal ran out 0-1 victors at RCDE Stadium, however Periquitos did manage to return to winning ways on Thursday night with a decent 0-1 success away to Ludogorets Razgrad in the Europa League.Espanyol top Group H with seven points from a possible nine and are in prime position to qualify for the knockout stages, but they desperately need to transfer their Europa League form and consistency to the domestic front. Periquitos are in real peril after losing six of their opening nine league matches, and head to Valencia this weekend lying second bottom and four points adrift of the safety line.It represents a dreadful start to the campaign by most teams’ standards but especially for a side that finished 7th last term, and it’s not hard to argue that the Barcelona based club are suffering for their Europa League participation, which began weeks before the La Liga season commenced.Espanyol are currently second favourites with most bookmakers to be relegated and it’s easy to see why, with five straight league defeats suffered at RCDE Stadium where they have scored just once and conceded 11 times.Periquitos will probably be glad to be on the road again this weekend although they take on a Levante side with one of the most solid home records in La Liga at present. Granotas have won two and drawn two at Cuitat de Valencia so far this season and are unbeaten in their last ten top flight games at home, winning four.Four away defeats from five including a 1-0 loss at Sevilla on Matchday 9 have somewhat evened out Levante’s start to the campaign as they sit 11th going into the weekend, but their consistency and strong defensive displays at home mean they should be kept on side here at around even money.Levante have conceded just twice this term in their four matches at Ciutat de Valencia and shouldn’t have too much trouble keeping out the visitors who have netted just four league goals, failing to score in six of their nine La Liga outings overall.Whilst Espanyol have been more solid on their travels with five points gained from four matches and just four goals conceded, they face a real task to keep this Levante side at bay, who had scored at least twice in eight consecutive home games prior to recent draws against Eibar (0-0) and Osasuna (1-1).Sevilla vs GetafeEstadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan, SevilleSunday, 27-10-2019 @8:30pmDetails to follow shortlyOsasuna vs ValenciaEstadio El Sadar, IruneaSunday, 27-09-2019 @11pmSegunda champions Osasuna blew the chance to move level on points with fellow promoted side Granada last week after suffering a 1-0 loss at Los Carmenes, and Los Rojillos’ solid start to the campaign now looks somewhat underwhelming compared to Nazaries who are six points and ten places ahead of them in 3rd.Considering that Osasuna were far superior in finishing eight points clear of Granada in the second tier last term, the result will have greatly disappointed boss Jagoba Arrasate who must now rally his troops ahead of Valencia’s visit to El Sadar this Sunday.Osasuna should be fully focused for this clash though as they continue to defend a tremendous unbeaten record in league action at El Sadar. It’s now 31 home league games since Osasuna were toppled in front of their own supporters, a run dating back to April 2018 which includes a 2-2 draw against Barcelona and 2-1 success over Villarreal this season.So Los Che will be taking nothing for granted as they head for Pamplona this weekend, even though confidence is gradually starting to rebuild in the Valencia camp following the dismissal of Marcelino and immediate appointment of Albert Celades in September.Valencia are slowly working themselves through what has been a difficult period of transition, and performances have been largely improving week to week. A 1-1 away draw to Atletico Madrid on Matchday 9 marked further progress, and Los Che will be hopeful that they can move northwards from their current 10th place whilst also securing qualification for the Champions League knockout phase.A late Lille equaliser in midweek was definitely a setback for Los Che on that front, but Celades would have probably taken a draw before his side’s trip to France. A similar result here would be just enough to keep momentum ticking over, and we think a stalemate is the most likely result between these two sides on Sunday as the teams have drawn nine games between them from 18 league outings thus far.So we’re predicting a 1-1 correct score for Sunday’s encounter at El Sadar, but we feel that under 2.5 goals is a much more solid proposition for our main tip instead of poking at the draw.Goals have generally been at a premium in contests involving the pair this term, with fewer than three netted in 13 of the sides’ combined 18 league games. Osasuna have impressively conceded just eight times and Valencia would boast the same defensive record save for their 5-2 drubbing at Barcelona last month, which came just a couple of days after Marcelino left the club.Comments 
17 November 2014 Families grieve for their departed relatives at a moving reception ceremony to welcome home the victims of the collapsed church guest house in Lagos, Nigeria. (Image: GCIS)Two months after the fatal collapse of a church guesthouse in Lagos, Nigeria, the bodies of 74 of the South African victims returned home to an emotional reception ceremony.The ceremony, held at a hangar at the Waterkloof Air Force Base in Pretoria on Sunday 16 November, was attended by the victims’ families, military officers and government officials. The formal proceedings included a prayer, a reading from the Bible, the singing of the national anthem and a moment of silence. The names of the dead were read out by Cassius Lubisi, the director-general of the presidency. The ceremony was broadcast live across the country on state television.On 12 September this year 116 people, 81 of them South African, died when a guesthouse belonging to the Synagogue Church of All Nations in Lagos collapsed.South Africa agreed to repatriate the remains of three Zimbabweans and one DRC national who were using South African travel papers, bringing the total number of bodies to be repatriated to 85.‘We share in your grief and sorrow’Speaking at Sunday’s ceremony, Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa said the return of the bodies was “a sombre moment for the people of South Africa”.“The people who perished in that tragic event in Lagos, Nigeria on 12 September were not mere statistics,” he said. “These were people who lived among us. They are South Africans. They are a part of us. These people were our colleagues and friends.“They were beloved wives, husbands, sons and daughters. They were our brothers and sisters. To the bereaved, we wish to say that, as a nation as a people, we share in your grief and sorrow. We understand that the loss you have suffered remains unbearable and incalculable.”Ramaphosa said the families should take solace from the fact that all South Africans shared in their bereavement and the dead could now rest in peace in the land of their birth.After the ceremony, uniformed military officers played the Death March as four forensic pathology trucks carrying the bodies left the airport en route to provincial mortuaries.Uncontrollable cries could be heard from the families, with some people collapsing. Counsellors were on hand to console grieving relatives.Earlier on Sunday, a cargo plane carrying 74 of the 85 who will be repatriated landed at the airforce base under strict security. The plane was met by justice minister Jeff Radebe, who chairs the interministerial task team set up to oversee the repatriation process, along with health minister Aaron Motsoaledi and social development minister Bathabile Dlamini.A total of 12 victims were from the Eastern Cape, two from the Free State, 22 from Gauteng, 23 from Mpumalanga, 13 from Limpopo, six from North West, five from KwaZulu-Natal and two from the Western Cape. The only one province not affected by tragedy was the Northern Cape.DNA testing to identify victimsOn Saturday, when the cargo plane carrying the victims left Lagos, Radebe thanked Nigerian authorities for their help and said the identification process had been difficult.“Over the last six weeks, the focus has been preparations to repatriate the deceased,” he said. “The verification of the mortal remains has been the most difficult part. This was because of the gruesome nature of the accident, which made the identification process difficult. The verification process resorted to the DNA tests at the laboratory.“Our medical team working with the Nigerian medical team has done a sterling job in this regard. Today we still sad about the tragedy but somehow relieved that the long wait for a number of the families will finally end.”SAinfo reporter and SANews.gov
Thirty companies are vying for top honours in the fifth edition of the South African Premier Business Awards. Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at the Sandton Convention Centre on 30 January 2018.The awards are sponsored by Wits Business School, Johannesburg Stock Exchange, Tsogo Sun and Old Mutual. (Image: Mathiba Molefe)Thirty companies will be vying for top honours in the fifth edition of the South African Premier Business Awards. Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony that will take place at the Sandton Convention Centre on 30 January 2018. The awards are presented by the Department of Trade and Industry (the dti), in partnership with Brand South Africa and Proudly South African.Anticipation is reigning supreme among the companies that will be battling it out for the first prizes in the 10 categories, but all eyes will be on Ndoukhulu Hydraulics and Mining Supplier. The company, which is based in Johannesburg, where it manufactures, repairs and refurbishes hydraulic cylinders, is leading the pack with nominations in three categories. These are Black Industrialists, Manufacturer and SMME Awards.Managing Director of Ndoukhulu Matome Manenzhe could not contain his excitement when he learnt that his company has been presented with three opportunities to romp home with a prestigious award at the ceremony.“We are honoured, humbled and privileged to make it as finalist in three categories. This is a great source of inspiration to everyone who is involved with our company, from our employees to our clients. To us making it this far is a great achievement that we will cherish for a long time as we are a relatively new and small company. Winning an award will be a cherry on top,” says an elated Manenzhe.He adds that he views his company’s nominations as a recognition of its small but commendable contribution in job creation, industrialisation, youth development and skill transfer.Another company on which the spotlight will shine prominently at the ceremony is Thata Ubeke Manufacturing, which is based in Boksburg where they manufacture electrical and electronic sub-systems for the domestic and export markets. CEO of Thatha Ubeke Nana Sabelo is optimistic that they will successfully defend the Black Industrialist Award which they won when it was first presented in 2016. However, a double is on the cards this year as they are also finalists in the Manufacturer Award.“We are thrilled about being nominated twice. It shows we are not a one-time wonder and that we did not rest on our laurels after winning the inaugural Black Industrial Award. We are confident that we are ticking many of the boxes that are in line with the country’s economic objectives. We are a 100% black, woman-owned company operating in the advanced manufacturing sector where it is creating jobs for predominantly young people and exporting products,” says Sabelo.Chief Operating Officer of Memeza Shout Elmarie Pereira is confident that it will be second time lucky for her social enterprise which is nominated for the SMME Award after failing to make the cut in the last edition.Memeza has provided South Africa with the first public alarm system that is linked to the police and community police forums. According to Parreira, the SAPS-endorsed alarm system enables ordinary South Africans who cannot afford private security to have access to safety and security.“We have been working on the roll-out of the public alarm system for four years. Being nominated as a finalist in the national premier business awards means that our company and efforts are being recognised and that the work we are doing is making an impact in the vulnerable communities that we are working hard to assist. Winning the award will prove that we are on the right track as a social enterprise. It will also encourage us to continue with our work in order to contribute in combating crime in South Africa. The initiative is also about community upliftment and job creation,” says Pereira.The awards are sponsored by Wits Business School, Johannesburg Stock Exchange, Tsogo Sun and Old Mutual.More information on the South African Premier Business Awards, visit www.sapremierbusinessawards.co.za or call 0861 843 384.
In an all-time first for Greek basketball, Milwaukee Bucks small forward Giannis Antetokounmpo has been selected for the NBA All-Star game in New Orleans on February 19.The 22-year-old known by fans as the “Greek Freak” received more than 1.6 million votes and came third in the Eastern Conference’s five-man squad, behind Cleveland Cavaliers superstar LeBron James with 1.9 million votes and Kyrie Irving, a three-time all-star, with 1.7 million votes. No other Eastern players got passed the 1-million mark.Antetokounmpo, who was born in Athens to Nigerian parents, made a series of tweets in Greek and English celebrating his win and thanking his fans and his brother and campaign manager, Thanasis Antetokounmpo, also a basketball player.“I would like to thank each and every one of you from the bottom of my heart for your support throughout these days,” Antetokounmpo wrote on his Twitter account in Greek. “You all took an active part in making my dream come true… I really appreciate it! You can be certain that I will be playing for you too at the All-Star Game. Thanks Greece!”At the age of 22 and 74 days, Antetokounmpo is the youngest non-American All-Star Game starter, after China’s Yoa Ming, who played in 2003 at the age of 22 years and four months. He is also the first Milwaukee Buck to play at the event since 2004.Source: KathimeriniTweetPinShare1313 Shares
Mahendra Singh Dhoni is all set to be back in action in four days time when India play their opening game of the Asia Cup against Hong Kong next Tuesday.Dhoni will be key to the Rohit Sharma-led India side in UAE not only for his experience but also for his batting, which has drawn some serious criticism lately.With Virat Kohli taking a rest, India’s batting will heavily depend on the openers and Dhoni in a middle-order, that keeps on shuffling. But, that being said, it gives Dhoni the chance to do something that not only he but everyone in the country perhaps feel should be done — bat at No.4.Much like KL Rahul, Manish Pandey and Kedar Jadhav, Dhoni will have a lot to prove to people, who have raised questions about his strike rate and finishing abilities during the limited-overs series in England.Dhoni’s slow batting led to boos from the stands in Lord’s as India failed to chase down England’s set target of 323 in the second ODI. India were already behind the asking rate when Dhoni walked in to bat at the fall of Virat Kohli’s wicket and his approach thereafter was baffling: Dhoni scored 37 off 59 balls and hit only two boundaries.Also read – MS Dhoni booed at Lord’s, Virat Kohli defends former captainAt the end, when Lord’s did reverberate with applause, it was because Dhoni was dismissed by Liam Plunkett in the 47th over of the Indian innings.In the next ODI as well, Dhoni got runs but failed to hit the ground running, therefore, disappointing the fans. Dhoni managed to score only 79 runs from 125 balls in two innings against England and he was heavily criticised by pundits as well.advertisement”If Dhoni has got to play (in the 2019 World Cup), then he has got to get in a position where he keeps hitting. If it is 24-25 overs and he has got to build an innings, he is struggling at the moment.Also read – MS Dhoni reveals why he stepped down as India captain”He may turn it around as he has been a great player for India but at the present he is not turning it around enough and this has been going on for more than an year,” Ganguly said after the second ODI at Lord’s. MS Dhoni was booed at Lord’s for his slow batting in the 2nd ODI against England (AP Photo)The boos were an unusual sight for a player, who has only been loved wherever he has gone. Dhoni’s failure in England was baffling to many because the World Cup-winning captain was coming off a brilliant Indian Premier League, where he led the returning Chennai Super Kings to their third IPL crown just a month ago.Also read – Pant ideal replacement for Dhoni but after 2019 World Cup, feels Virender SehwagDhoni scored 455 runs from 18 matches at an average of 40.16 and a strike-rate of 138.19. Mahi smashed 24 boundaries and 30 maximums in the 11th edition of the IPL.What worked for Dhoni was that he came to bat at No.4 and it gave him time to settle in and take on the bowlers later on. Dhoni’s fearless hitting gave fans enough hope going into the England series and the World Cup ahead, that the good-old hard-hitting Dhoni is back but a month later…he was nowhere to be found.The most obvious reason one could say behind Dhoni’s failure in England would be the fact that he came to bat down the order and had less balls to face. And this is where the Asia Cup could change things for the wicket-keeper batsman.Also read – Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni and 7 other Team India members depart early for Asia CupWith Kohli not being present at No.3, Dhoni has the chance to come up the order and play the anchor’s role before taking on the bowlers towards the end of the innings. With conditions conducive to spin bowling, he will have the chance to get his eye in and then attack the faster bowlers towards the end.Yes! Dhoni has struggled against the wrist-spinners lately but his experience remains and some lusty blows from the meat of the bat will do him great good in terms of confidence.WATCH – Rohit Sharma & Co. depart for Asia Cup 2018Dhoni’s role in the batting order will be very important to India’s chances in the Asia Cup. With Kohli not being there, teams will fancy their chances against a shaky middle-order and this is where, Dhoni’s experience and ability will be really helpful for Rohit and the team.advertisementAlso, a great run at No.4 at the Asia Cup, followed by some good innings against West Indies and Australia later in the year, can well give India the answer to their middle-order woes going into the World Cup in England and Wales in June, 2019.
To many, India’s Test series in England already feels like a distant memory. Not for Hanuma Vihari though. It was only last month that he had made his Test debut at the Oval, the last game of a forgettable tour. All had been lost for the visitors but there was everything to gain for the Andhra batsman getting ready to celebrate his 25th birthday. The proverbial butterflies in his stomach, his struggle against the moving ball initially and then a gritty half-century with skipper Virat Kohli at the other end, Vihari remembers every second that he spent in the middle during his first Test innings.”Yes, I do remember every bit of it. I faced difficulty in adjusting to those conditions initially as the ball was moving a lot. However, after I got settled everything fell in place and I could play my natural game,” Vihari says of his 56-run innings in a chat with India Today.He scored a match-winning 87 not out for India ‘B’ against India ‘A’ in the first match of the Deodhar Trophy at Delhi’s Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium on Tuesday.A home series against the West Indies followed but Vihari knew it will be difficult to break-in the playing eleven at home. He was released from the Indian squad during the second and final Test to captain Andhra’s quarter-final game in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. The team didn’t make it to the semis but the young lad scored 95.”I know it will be difficult for me to get into the Test eleven while playing at home as five bowlers will play in India. I understand that. I have already started preparing for the Australia tour and, if given an opportunity, will strive to perform well Down Under.”advertisementRead – Hanuma Vihari reveals how tips from Virat Kohli helped him face England pacersThe team management has given a brief to all Test players as far as preparation for the future tours is concerned. A tour of New Zealand with the India ‘A’ team could be in the offing for Vihari next month to prepare for the Test series against Australia which starts in Adelaide from December 6.Vihari says his journey has many “ups and downs” especially after not getting a chance to play at the higher level in spite of good show in the Ranji Trophy. But that is part of history now.”My mother has sacrificed a lot for me, all this whatever I have achieved today is because of her,” he says emotionally while remembering the days of struggle.Vihari 26th Indian to score 50 on Test debutVihari is a “huge admirer” of Mahendra Singh Dhoni for “the way he handles himself and presents himself on the field.” He is also full of praise for skipper Virat Kohli.”Virat is very passionate and aggressive on the field. It is something which rubs on to the other players also. It was a good experience to play alongside him at the Oval in those conditions. It gave me a lot of confidence.”Also Read – Rahul Dravid helped me ease my nerves before Test debut, says VihariOnly two days ago, Vihari got engaged to his childhood friend Preetiraj Yeruva in Hyderabad.”Yeah, I think the lady luck is already smiling on me… I played a match-winning knock for my team today,” he said before leaving for the Kotla dressing room.