Justin Bieber banned from performing in China
Sad, sad news for Justin Bieber fans in China hoping Justin’s Purpose tour would make a stop there. They’ll have to be content with streaming and CDs -- the government’s banned him from performing in their country.
A message posted to the Beijing Culture Bureau website declares 23-year-old Bieber’s “bad behavior" is the reason. At least, that’s according to the New York Times’ translation of the Chinese text. Google’s best-effort translation is more entertaining: “It is understood that as a public figure, he had a series of bad behavior in the overseas social life and in the domestic performance activities caused public dissatisfaction.” As such, “it is not appropriate to introduce bad behavior of the performing arts.”
The message was posted Tuesday, apparently in response to a fan’s question.
Justin’s uneven public behavior is no secret, of course, though he’s trying hard to change his image for the better. Also, you might recall the last time Justin visited China, back in October of 2013, he was widely mocked when photos surfaced of two apparent bodyguards carrying him on their shoulders as they walked up the famous Great Wall.
Regardless, Justin’s in good company when it comes to being banned in China, joining acts including Lady Gaga, Selena Gomez, JAY-Z, Maroon 5 and others.
Justin’s Purpose tour resumes a week from Saturday in Arlington, Texas, and kicks off its next Asian leg September 23 in Tokyo, Japan.
Source-ABC
Ryan Seacrest officially signs on as host of ABC's "American Idol" reboot
Seacrest...in! Kelly Ripa made the news official Thursday morning on Live with Kelly and Ryan: Ryan Seacrest is the new host of ABC's reboot of American Idol.
"I'm happy to confirm, I can confirm with absolute confirmation, that Ryan Seacrest is returning for the host of American Idol!" said Kelly. Then, realizing her error, she said, "Let me try that one more time. Ryan Seacrest is returning as the host of American Idol!
"Absolutely, without a doubt," Ryan agreed. "I'm so excited. It's gonna be the best time!"
Ryan hosted American Idol on Fox for all 15 seasons. When he signed off last year, he said, "Seacrest out...for now."
In a prepared statement, Seacrest said, "It’s genuinely hard to put into words what American Idol means to me. I’m so grateful for the show and all the career and life opportunities it’s allowed me to experience. It’s been an incredible journey from day one. To be asked to return this year, at my new home at Disney|ABC, is an honor, if not a bit surreal."
He added, "I believe ABC is the perfect home for Idol, and I’ve every confidence the show’s legions of fans will love it – especially Idol’s best traditions of showcasing heartwarming stories, remarkable talent discovery, and, best of all, making dreams come true.”
Source-ABC
Rihanna & Harry Styles invade your multiplex this weekend
Music fans are in for a treat this weekend: two pop superstars are featured in new movies arriving in theaters.
Rihanna stars in Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets, a sci-fi epic from director Luc [Luke] Besson based on a popular comic book series. Rihanna plays Bubble, a shape-shifting alien, and says when Besson described the part, she was hooked.
"Sci-fi movies are always really fun and this one has such a modern twist," she says. "There’s a lot of reality in this world that’s not real, and that’s why I think I was [attracted] to it."
Rihanna also liked working with Besson, the director of The Fifth Element, The Professional and Lucy.
"He is very patient when it comes to working and directing me because I’m very new to the movie world and he’s very considerate of that," she explains.
Even more of an acting newbie is Harry Styles, making his big-screen debut in Dunkirk, a World War II drama from director Christopher Nolan. It tells the real-life story of the evacuation of 400,000 Allied troops from France. Harry says a big reason for taking the part was Nolan, the director of The Dark Knight and Inception.
"I’ve always been a massive fan of Chris’ movies and just getting to watch him work felt like a big part of the whole experience," he says. "It...felt pretty amazing to be involved in a project with him."
Harry plays a young soldier who, he says, "will kinda do anything to survive."
Harry studied the story of Dunkirk in school, but just barely. "I think that was something that’s so great about the movie," he says. "It’s such a massive piece of history and such an important part that isn’t told that often."
Source-ABC
Quincy Jones testifies in lawsuit against Michael Jackson estate
Quincy Jones took the stand Thursday in Los Angeles in his lawsuit against the Michael Jackson estate, and he made it clear straight away that he’s not taking legal action against the King of Pop.
"I'm not suing Michael," Jones said as he looked at the attorney for the estate, according to The Hollywood Reporter. "I'm suing y'all."
The producer of Jackson’s Thriller, Bad and Off the Wall albums says he’s owed $30 million in royalties from those releases and other music he recorded with Michael.
Jones claims his agreements with Jackson stipulate he would receive additional payment when those songs are used for films, such as the posthumous concert documentary This Is It. The estate attorneys argue Jones is only entitled to a percentage of record sales.
Estate attorney Howard Weitzman asked Jones if he should receive money from music licensed for new projects, even though the estate interpreted the contract to mean he was not entitled to licensing fees. Contract montract," Jones responded. "If we made the record, we deserve to get paid."
When asked why he didn't file his lawsuit while Jackson was alive, Jones said, "I cared more about him as a human being than about the money."
The estate previously offered Jones a settlement of between $2 million and $3 million before trial, which it what it believes Jones is owed.
Closing arguments in the case are scheduled for Monday morning.
DIGICEL ANNOUNCES KEVIN GORDON AS CEO FOR ITS BVI OPERATIONS
Digicel today announced the promotion of Kevin Gordon to Chief Executive Officer for its operations in the British Virgin Islands effective immediately. In this role, Kevin, a Jamaican national, will have oversight for all areas of business and operational excellence for Digicel BVI.
Already a member of the BVI family, Kevin brings a wealth of experience to his new role having joined the team in 2015 as Head of Business Operations. In just one year, he was promoted to the role of General Manager where he worked with the team to identify and streamline efficiencies across the business to drive market share. Prior to that, Kevin served in several roles in Jamaica - where his journey began with Digicel in 2006.
Kevin commented; “Listening to our customers and putting their feedback into action is very important to us. It’s a big part of our success and something I’m particularly passionate about. So I’m looking forward to continue working with the team to put our customers first and deliver the very best experience and network to them.”
Digicel Caribbean and Central America CEO, Vanessa Slowey, said; “I am so proud to appoint Kevin as the CEO for our BVI operations – especially as he has grown with Digicel over the years. His efficiency, productivity and work ethic will stand him in good stead as he works to ensure our customers always have the best experience with us. I wish him all the very best in his new role.”
CDB announces support for a climate-smart agricultural sector in Guyana
The Board of Directors of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) have approved a grant of USD295,000 to support the Government of Guyana in developing a framework, which will guide the development and implementation of measures to adapt to the impact of climate change on the agriculture sector in that country.
In Guyana, the agriculture sector is a significant contributor to the gross domestic product, and also employs a large portion of the population. Climate change can have a significant effect on the sector, as most agricultural production is concentrated along the coastal plains which are on average 1.4 meters below sea level at high tide. Rising sea levels, increased in the intensity and frequency of rainfall and higher temperatures associated with climate change are already negatively impacting agricultural production. This technical assistance project will allow the Government to identify areas that are the most vulnerable to climate change and to adopt new climate-smart agricultural practices.
“The project will help the Government to identify specific crops and crop varieties that are most suited to particular regions, as well as activities that are specific to these regions that can be implemented to adapt to the effects of climate change. This will assist the Government in better planning investment programmes in the agriculture sector,” said Deidre Clarendon, Division Chief, Social Sector Division, CDB.
Findings from research completed under the project will be used to support capacity-building in Guyana and other CDB Borrowing Member Countries. Once completed, it is expected that the results of the project will be shared through a regional knowledge dissemination workshop, which will bring together agriculture stakeholders from across the Region.
The project is scheduled to be implemented over a period of 16 months. It is consistent with CDB’s strategic objective of supporting inclusive sustainable growth and development, as well as the Bank’s corporate priority of supporting agriculture and rural development.
Departing Visitors Statistics Released
The Department of Statistics is pleased to release the results of the Departing Visitors' Survey which was conducted at the Providenciales International Airport during the month of March.
The report is the result of collaborative efforts between the Tourist Board and the Department of Statistics and intends to provide key players in the tourism industry with useful information in planning and program development for the best interest of the Islands. The survey also provides data useful for marketing strategies and programs to evaluate the tourism product which will help the TCI to remain competitive.
Some of the highlights of the report included:
The most important factors in deciding visits to the TCI; where the beautiful beaches accounted for eighty percent (80%) and ease of travel access accounted for ten point six percent (10.6%).
When asked about the satisfaction with the tourism product and services in the TCI, the general response showed a moderate level of satisfaction. However, as was the case with previous survey results, visitors expressed dissatisfaction with the souvenir purchases, the services of taxi/hired cars and the lack of night life in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
When asked about the source of information for planning a trip to the TCI, thirty-three percent (33%) of the respondents stated that their source were recommendation of friends/relatives. The next major source was the internet which accounted for twenty-seven point six percent (27.6%) of respondents.
Both the Department of Statistics and the Tourist Board deem this report as very important because it provides key players in the tourism industry with useful information which can help with its future growth. As always the department would like to express sincere thanks to the airport authority and the students of the community college who assisted with the survey. The next survey will be conducted in August of this year.
PREMIER SHARLENE C. ROBINSON RETURNS FROM THE PRE-JOINT MINISTERIAL COUNCIL AND JMC OT EUROPEAN NEGOTIATIONS
Premier and Minister of Finance, Trade and Investment, the Hon Sharlene Cartwright Robinson returned to the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) after successful meetings in London and Brussels in relation to a number of issues pertinent to the Islands.
Appearance Before the House of Lords EU Select Committee
On Monday, 10 July Premier Hon. Cartwright-Robinson appeared before the House of Lords European Union (EU) Select Committee to give evidence on the potential impacts of the UK's departure from the EU (Brexit) on the TCI. The session was chaired by Baroness Verna and the Leaders from the other UK Overseas Territories were also in attendance. Eight OTs appeared and the financial and social impacts of Brexit on the Overseas Territories were discussed along with the opportunities that may arise for the Territories as the UK seeks to establish itself outside of the EU. Premier Robinson set out that the greatest potential loss for the TCI is access to EU funding though not as great a concern, she raised the potential impact on travel.
Meeting of UKOTA
The Leaders of the UK Overseas Territories met on Tuesday, 11 July to discuss issues of common interests including EU funding and relations post Brexit, the relationship between the UK Government and the Overseas Territories, security, child safe guarding and the protection of the environment. During this Meeting, Premier Robinson moved a critical motion that was unanimously supported by all UKOTs on a united way forward in addressing the Post Brexit negotiations.
In the evening, the Premier attended an Overseas Territories Cultural reception where Turks and Caicos spoken word artists Mary Fulford and Renate Hinds performed an original cultural piece. The Islands culinary delights were also served.
Joint Ministerial Council
The Joint Ministerial Council of the Oversees Territories on the European Negotiations (JMC OT EN) was held on 12 July and chaired jointly by Lord Ahmad Minister for the Overseas Territories and Minister for Exiting the EU Robin Walkin MP. During these meetings, the United Kingdom Government reiterated its commitment to ensuring that the Overseas Territories have 'an effective and clear voice' in the Brexit process and to continue engaging with the Overseas Territories as the negotiations between the EU and the UK progress. The OTs areas of interest in the negotiations include international trade, agriculture and fisheries, EU funding, borders and immigration and sanctions.
Premier Met With Minister for Overseas Territories
Premier Robinson also met with Lord Ahmad bilaterally to discuss issues pertinent to the TCI including: National Security, Crown Land Review, Constitutional Review, Beneficial Ownership and Brexit.
Role As OCTA Chair
The Premier travelled to Brussels on 13 July where she met with Mr Klaus Rudischhauser, Deputy Director General in the Directorate-General for International Cooperation and Development (DG Devco) and Mr Delgado Rosa, Director for Natural Capital in her capacity as Chair of the Association of the Overseas Countries and Territories of the EU (OCTA). During these meetings the relationship of the Overseas Territories of the EU and the EU Post 2020 was discussed as well and funding streams for biodiversity and climate change in the EU OTs. The Premier also took the opportunity to meet with the President of OCTA, Mrs. Carol Voges of Sint Maatern, and the EU Representative of Greenland Mr. Mininngauq Kleist.
Promotion of TCI in Brussels
The Premier's visit to Brussels concluded with a BRUZZ event organized by OCTA Innovation. The Premier gave a presentation on 'Innovation, Tourism and Investment in the Turks and Caicos Islands'. Remarks were also made by Mr. Denis Salord, Head of Unit, Relations with the OCTs, DG Devco, on behalf of the European Commission and Carol Voges on behalf of OCTA and Milan Jezic von Gesseneck Team Leader of OCTA Innovation. Premier Robinson responded to questions posed by members of the media and potential investors.
Premier Robinson, I am pleased that I was able to represent our people in the House of Lords Committee and during the JMC. The opportunity to meet with the new Minister Lord Ahmad was an important achievement and in the coming weeks we expect to hear from him on the issues raised. He has also committed to quarterly communications and gave an open door to raise critical issues at any time. I am also confident that the Presentation in Brussels will yield positive results. I am scheduled to return to the UK in November to continue Post Brexit talks.
The delegation included Mr. Ronlee James, Executive Director in the Office of the Premier, Ms. Tisa Joy Lightbourne, Executive Assistant in the Office of the Premier, Mrs. Tracy Knight, Head of the (TCI-UK Office) and Mr. Kimo Tynes, Consular Officer (TCI-UK Office)
Meet the car made from biodegradable materials
A car made from biodegradable natural materials has passed road safety tests in the Netherlands.
TU Ecomotive, a student team from Eindhoven University of Technology, unveiled LINA earlier this year.
The four-seater's lightweight structure is made from sugar beet and flax which takes 20% of the energy used to produce today's aluminium or carbon-fibre based cars.
The university says the concept car will undergo a few final adaptations before being allowed on public roads later this month.
Spain's 'secret credit card banker' Blesa found shot dead
A leading banker has been found shot in the chest, six months after he was given a jail term for a corruption scandal that stunned Spain.
Miguel Blesa, 69, is thought to have shot himself at a country estate in the southern province of Córdoba.
Blesa was for 13 years the chairman of the Caja Madrid savings bank.
He was found guilty over secret "black credit cards" handed out to bank board members and advisers, who used them to buy luxury goods and entertainment.
Miguel Blesa was given a six-year sentence but died before his appeal could be heard.
Having arrived at the Puerto del Toro estate at Villanueva del Rey in the early hours of Wednesday, he had been having breakfast with a friend when Blesa said he had to move his car. Moments later a shot rang out and his body was found.
Spanish authorities were investigating a possible suicide but had not ruled out the theory of an accident, sources said. Blesa was a passionate hunter and had a gun licence.
For a Spain reeling from an economic crisis exacerbated by a €51bn (£45bn; $58bn) state bailout of the banks, the credit card revelations that emerged in 2013 were toxic.
Caja Madrid and Bankia, the bank it became in 2010 when merged with five other savings banks, were both implicated in the scandal that ran from 1999 to 2012. The Bankia bailout cost more than €20bn. Much of the money will never be recovered.
An estimated €15.5m, supposedly meant to cover the costs of attending board meetings, had been spent with the unofficial credit cards on jewellery, holidays and luxury clothes or just taken out of cash machines.
Blesa was found guilty of misappropriating €436,700 of funds. Pictures emerged of the former chairman on hunting trips, showing off his spoils including a dead hippopotamus.
The case ensnared more than 60 bank executives and ex-board members. Among them was Rodrigo Rato, the illustrious ex-head of the International Monetary Fund, who was handed four and a half years in jail.
The case also seeped into Spanish politics as Rodrigo Rato had been a high-profile economy minister in the centre-right Popular Party government before he joined the IMF. He became chairman of Bankia in 2010 two years before it had to be bailed out.