Commissioner Alerts Growers of Presence of Late Blight

Confirmation in Suffolk County: Growers Urged to be on the Lookout for Disease

New York State Agriculture Commissioner Darrel J. Aubertine today alerted home gardeners and commercial growers of the potential introduction of late blight this growing season, as it has been confirmed in Suffolk County. 

Late blight is a plant disease that spreads rapidly from plant to plant in wet, cool weather that causes tomato and potato plants, primarily, to wilt and die.

“To help protect the State’s potato and tomato crops, the Department has once again initiated a concerted strategy to enhance the State’s detection and eradication efforts for late blight this growing season,” the Commissioner said. 

“While the recent hot and dry weather patterns should reduce the spread of this plant disease, commercial growers and gardeners should always be on the lookout and take the recommended precautions to protect their plants.” 

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets has trained horticultural inspectors that are currently surveying plants, in particular transplant tomatoes, at the retail level and in commercial greenhouses. 

Collectively, they have inspected more than 1,600,000 tomato plants and seen no signs of late blight detected in tomatoes. 

In addition, the Department continues to work with Cornell Cooperative Extension to conduct outreach and follow up in the field with both growers and gardeners. 

As a result of those efforts, three cases of late blight in field potatoes have been confirmed in Suffolk County. 

Late blight is a plant disease that mainly attacks potatoes and tomatoes, although it can sometimes be found on other crops, weeds and ornamentals, such as petunias, nightshades, and tomatillos. 

Late blight was a factor in the Irish potato famine in the 1840’s, during which millions of people in Ireland starved or were forced to emigrate. 

Late blight is caused by an oomycete pathogen that can produce millions of spores from infected plants, spreading readily with wet weather and high humidity. 

Spores travel through the air, land on plants, and if the weather is sufficiently wet, cause new infections. Once infected, plants may wilt and die within three days.

               

New York has battled strains of late blight in 2009 and 2011 that were particularly devastating to tomatoes.  Presence of the disease, combined with wet weather those years led to a quick and devastating spread of the disease. 

Organic growers struggled with the disease as they have few approved control measures to use, and commercial tomato growers were challenged to apply crop fungicides in time to prevent the outbreak. 

Visit http://vegetablemdonline.ppath.cornell.edu/factsheets/Potato_LateBlt.htm for more information about identifying late blight and how to control it.

Image courtesy of http://free-extras.com.

Andy Griffith Passes Away

President George W. Bush presented Griffith with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005. 

Actor Who Made the Fictional Town of "Mayberry" a Household Name Was 86

Andy Griffith, who portrayed the lovable lawman on the iconic "Andy Griffith Show" in the 1960's, has died.

The announcement was made by Griffith's friend and president of the University of North Carolina, Bill Friday. Griffith also starred in the television series "Matlock".

From The G-Man will provide more information on this breaking news story as it becomes available.

Editor's Note: The news of Griffith's death was originally reported by television station  WITN.

Top Newsy Headlines: Assad Regrets Downing of Turkish Jet

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By Harumendhah Helmy
Anchor: Logan Tittle
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Facebook Responds to Email Glitches

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By Ferdous Al-Faruque
Anchor: Lauren Zima
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Polls Galore After Health Care Supreme Court Ruling

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By Christina Hartman
Anchor: Christina Hartman
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Aljazeera's Top News Stories

Vocalizing Sexual Harassment in Egypt

For years, Egyptian women have put up with sexual harassment, simply for walking down the street. Now they are coming out into the open to say 'enough is enough'. At a rally in Tahrir Square last month, female protestors came under attack. Water was thrown into the crowd in an attempt to repel the mob of men who were groping women and trying to remove their clothes. An anti-harassment demonstration became itself a target for harassment. What used to be a silent shame has now been thrust into the open, with exhibitions and events. The revolution in Egypt has raised the expectations of many women. Al Jazeera's Jacky Rowland reports from Cairo.

Human Rights Watch Sees Syrian Torture

After interviewing more than 200 former detainees, Human Rights Watch (HRW) has been able to map out 27 of the Syrian government's detention centres. From the interviews, HRW has chronicled the Assad regime's torture methods - beatings, stress positions, electrocution, acid and more. The majority of those detained by Assad's security forces are between 18 and 35 years old, although they documented children as young as 10 and 11 being detained along with women and the elderly. HRW says the evidence from their interviews points to a state-imposed policy of arbitrary detention and torture. The organisation has also called for Syria to be referred to the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Kosovo Set to Gain Sovereignty

The International Steering Group overseeing Kosovo's independence has said the territory will be granted full sovereignty in September. Kosovo declared its own independence from Serbia in 2008, but border relations between the two have been tense ever since. Al Jazeera's Jonah Hull reports.

Thailand's Lucky PM Risks 'Unsustainable Rule'

Thailand Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra celebrates her first year in power after a landslide victory last election. She has a lot to celebrate - this woman with no previous political experience led the Pheu Thai party to a big election win. And while Yingluck's administration has a strong mandate to continue in office, opponents say that by moving too fast, she risks making her hard-fought changes only temporary. Al Jazeera's Wayne Hay reports from Bangkok.

Mali Rebels Speak to Al Jazeera

Al Jazeera spoke to Moussa Ag Al Sarid, the Communications Director of the National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA). He says their fight for Mali's north is not over. The rebel's decision to rertreat from the northern cities was to "avoid a bloodbath", and a way to confront the armed groups away from civilians, says al Sarid. He maintains Tuareg forces still hold the five borders of the northern province Azawad. Al Sarid says that allies of the Malinese government are trying to crush the MNLA's goal of an independent Azawad, and may be supporting the armed Islamist forces, though he could not specify who. After the northern territory was captured by Tuareg separatists following a March 22 coup, al Qaeda linked groups managed to expell the rebels from their self-declared rule, suspending Tuareg plans for statehood. With large parts of the country left unstable and disconnected from central rule, Tuareg rebels try to regroup, without the resources or funds enjoyed by their rivals.

Groups Linked to al-Qaeda Swamp Northern Mali

Mali's Foreign Minister says the government will do all it can to recapture the land it lost after the March coup. After the northern territory was captured by Tuareg separatists following a March 22 coup, al Qaeda linked groups managed to expell the rebels from their self-declared rule, suspending Tuareg plans for statehood. With large parts of the country left unstable and disconnected from central rule, Tuareg rebels try to regroup, without the resources or funds enjoyed by their rivals. Al Jazeera's May Welsh reports from Gao in Northern Mali

Addabbo Votes on Bill Placing More Limits on Telemarketing Calls

"This New Measure Will Help to Crack Down on These Annoying Practices"

Queens, NY – New York State Senator Joseph Addabbo, Jr. (D-Queens) recently applauded the Senate and Assembly passage of legislation (S.7567) that will further restrict unwanted telemarketing calls from companies located both inside and outside of New York and take aim at irritating, pre-recorded marketing messages. 

“Despite the overall success of existing state and federal statutes that save consumers from being completely deluged by unwanted marketing calls, some companies that want to sell their goods and services over the phone have found a way around our laws,” Addabbo said.  

“This new measure, which I was proud to support, will help to crack down on these annoying practices.”

Under the legislation, telemarketers will be prohibited from calling New Yorkers who have signed up for the “Do-Not-Call Registry” regardless of where the companies are located.

While the New York State Department of State registers telemarketers operating within New York’s boundaries, companies that are registered, chartered, certified or licensed outside of the state have not been subject to registration or regulation.

“This legislation closes that loophole and should help reduce the number of unwanted calls some New Yorkers have been receiving,” Addabbo said.

The legislation also prohibits telemarketers from placing pre-recorded marketing calls – also known as “robocalls” – to New Yorkers on the Do-Not-Call Registry without their express written consent.   

In addition, companies placing “robocalls” to New York residents who have not yet signed up for the Registry must provide the consumer with an opportunity to opt out of receiving calls.

For example, the recorded phone call must provide instructions – whether through key press options or voice-activated prompts - explaining how to add the consumer’s phone number to the company’s “Do Not Call” list.

Exceptions to the anti-telemarketing laws include charitable groups, political organizations and companies that have an existing business relationship with the consumer being called.

“Governor Cuomo has expressed his willingness to sign this important legislation into law and give New Yorkers more relief from unwanted telemarketing calls on their home telephones and cell phones,” Addabbo said.  

“I hope that this action will be taken soon.”

Addabbo noted that residents who have not yet registered with the National Do Not Call Registry may do so by calling 1-888-382-1222 or may register online at www.donotcall.gov. Home telephones and cellular phones may be registered. 

The article New Legislation Combats Intrusive and Unwanted Telemarketing provides more detail on the bill. 

Pharma Giant GSK To Pay $3 Billion Settlement

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By Matthew Picht
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UN Rights Chief: 'Arms Flow Increasing Into Syria'

Navi Pillay, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, tells Al Jazeera that violence in Syria is being fuelled by the increasing flow of weapons to both the sides.

'The Crew, Their Families, and Their Loved Ones Are in Our Thoughts and Prayers'

Statement by the President on Last Night's Crash of North Carolina Air National Guard C-130

Yesterday, a military C-130 from the North Carolina Air National Guard crashed while supporting firefighting efforts in South Dakota.  The full details are still under investigation, but the crew of this flight – along with their families and loved ones – is in our thoughts and prayers.  The men and women battling these terrible fires across the West put their lives on the line every day for their fellow Americans.  The airmen who attack these fires from above repeatedly confront dangerous conditions in an effort to give firefighters on the ground a chance to contain these wildfires – to save homes, businesses, schools, and entire communities. They are heroes who deserve the appreciation of a grateful nation.  I know Americans across the country share my concern for the well-being of the surviving members of the crew and my deep condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. And I know that Americans join me in expressing my deepest gratitude for the selfless determination they and thousands of men and women involved in this fight in states across the country demonstrate every day.

NYPA Approves $30 Million for New, Energy Efficient Technology

Company Aims to Expand and Support Growth of New York State's Clean Energy Economy

The New York Power Authority (NYPA) Board of Trustees has approved $30 million to advance market development and commercialization of new energy efficient technologies, helping support the growth of New York State's clean energy economy while also reducing costs and improving efficiency at public facilities statewide.

"This initiative will expand our growing clean energy industry by using public-private partnerships to accelerate the commercialization of new energy efficient technologies," Governor Cuomo said.

"With the NY Works program launching job-creating projects in all corners of the state, these funds will help the state continue to provide low-cost, affordable power to businesses big and small, while also investing in projects to improve energy-efficiency at public, commercial, and residential buildings across the state. This new technology will improve air quality and the reliability of the electric power system here in New York, while lowering energy bills and helping the state further solidify its place as the nation's leader in the clean energy economy."

"Governor Cuomo has set forth an ambitious energy agenda, including increased energy efficiency, accelerated solar development and improved electricity transmission throughout the state,” said NYPA Chairman John R. Koelmel.

“The New York Power Authority will be a key partner in achieving the Governor's energy goals, which will lower utility bills, protect our environment, decrease our reliance on fossil-fueled power plants and improve our energy independence. The Energy Efficiency Market Acceleration Program initiative will be an important component, supporting the launching of new energy efficiency technologies that will propel New York State's clean energy industry to new levels."

NYPA's new Energy Efficiency Market Acceleration Program, EE-MAP, will provide the $30 million in funding over a five-year period to accelerate energy efficiency market development activities and demonstration projects.

Specifically, it will focus on the deployment of commercial energy efficiency products and systems that are not yet widely available by: helping to accelerate their deployment; attracting technology companies to New York State; creating and facilitating market channels for energy efficiency technology companies; assisting in the forming of strategic alliances and business development opportunities for technology companies; and training engineers, contractors and maintenance service providers in designing and installing energy efficiency products.

In addition, EE-MAP will include developing energy efficiency master planning programs and efforts to develop new energy efficiency markets in coordination with State agencies, authorities and electric utilities to improve industry access to investments made at public facilities.

In May, Governor Cuomo announced $15 million in funding for three "Proof of Concept" Centers to connect energy innovators and business investors, which will help investors and scientists turn high-tech clean energy ideas into entrepreneurial successes. 

The centers will accelerate the commercialization of innovations, particularly through the creation of new start-up companies, while connecting the developers of promising new technologies with business mentors and potential investors.

Also, in his Power NY agenda, the Governor called for accelerating energy efficiency improvements to public buildings, highlighting the multiple benefits that include saving taxpayer dollars, improving the environment, and creating jobs.

The upgrade projects include new lighting fixtures, heating and ventilating systems, electric motors, automated energy management systems, fuel cells, and solar power installations, while beneficiaries included schools, colleges, police and fire stations, municipal buildings, transit facilities, public housing, libraries, and wastewater treatment plants. 

In support of this agenda, NYPA will finance $450 million in cost-effective energy efficiency projects over the next four years, with a goal to reduce energy consumption in state buildings by 20 percent.

NYPA also intends to finance an additional $350 million over the next four years to provide energy efficiency financing and technical services to county and local governments and schools, helping to lower local government costs for taxpayers.

As part of its mission, the New York Power Authority has been a leader in promoting energy efficiency throughout New York State since the late 1980s.

In aggregate, NYPA's energy services programs have achieved over $144 million in annual customer savings at about 3,900 public facilities, including schools, hospitals and municipal buildings, for a reduction of annual greenhouse gas emissions of more than 845,000 tons.

The improvements have lowered peak electricity demand by approximately 225 megawatts, or the equivalent to the output of a medium-sized power plant.

For many projects, no capital funding is needed upfront, as the energy savings will be used to repay the loans. NYPA finances the cost of its energy services programs primarily from the sale of Commercial Paper Notes and recovers its costs by sharing in the resulting electric-bill savings. 

"NYPA remains committed to improving New York's sustainability with aggressive energy efficiency efforts. EE-MAP will support and strengthen the foundation of the energy efficiency industry in New York State by bringing innovative energy-savings technologies to market, which will advance New York's technology leadership in this important industry and create clean energy jobs throughout the state," stated Gil C. Quiniones, NYPA president and chief executive officer.

Judge Blocks Mississippi Abortion Law

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Presidential Delegation to the Republic of Korea Announced

The Honorable Jane Lubchenco Will Lead the Delegation on July 4

President Barack Obama today announced the designation of a Presidential Delegation to the Republic of Korea to attend the United States National Day at the Yeosu Expo 2012.

The Honorable Jane Lubchenco, Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere, will lead the delegation on July 4, 2012. 

Members of the Presidential Delegation: The Honorable Sung Kim, United States Ambassador to the Republic of Korea and United States Commissioner to Expo 2012 Yeosu, Korea, Ms. Wendy S. Cutler, Assistant United States Trade Representative for Japan, Korea and APEC Affairs, The Honorable Adam Ereli, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, and Mr. Daniel Dae Kim, Honorary United States Cultural Ambassador to the 2012 World Expo. 

Details on the event available here: United States National Day at the Yeosu Expo 2012

NYS Capitol 'Independence Day Exhibit' Opens July 4

Exhibition Includes Original Copy of New York’s First Constitution, George Washington’s Ceremonial Sword

Governor Andrew Cuomo today announced the opening of a new exhibit in the State Capitol, starting July 4th that will highlight New York’s role during the American Revolution.

This exhibit is part of the Governor's ongoing efforts to highlight New York's history at the Capitol, which began earlier this year with the restoration of the Hall of Governors, the Black History Month and Women’s History Month exhibits, and a display honoring New York’s service men and women for Memorial Day.

"New York has a rich history and this exhibit is part of our effort to teach younger generations about the state's past and the important role that it played in our nation's founding," said Governor Cuomo.

"I encourage all New Yorkers to visit the Independence Day Exhibition at the Capitol as the nation celebrates America’s 236th birthday."

The exhibition will open on July 4th and remain on display throughout the month of July. In addition, there will be a special exhibit featuring George Washington’s ceremonial sword and Marquis De Lafayette’s pistol from July 4th to July 6th.

The State Capitol will be open from 2 to 8 PM on July 4th. The exhibit includes items from the New York State Library, New York State Archives, the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, the New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs, and the State Education Department.

This will be the first time that these agencies’ and non-profit’s Revolutionary War era artifacts will be on display together.

The Independence Day exhibit is part of the Governor’s ongoing initiative to restore the Capitol and publically display artifacts, documents and items that are significant to New York’s history.

The exhibit will open on July 4th, in time for visitors to come and see the display, while also visiting other sites open on the Plaza and the State Museum.

This will be the first time that the Capitol is open to display an exhibit as part of the State’s other 4th of July celebration activities.

New York was the sight of significant action during the Revolutionary War. Instrumental battles at Ft. Ticonderoga and Saratoga helped secure America’s victory against the British.

It was also where America suffered one of its gravest defeats, when British forces overwhelmed Washington’s army and forced him to abandon New York City. Other battles occurred throughout the State, making it one of the most strategically important areas of the entire War.

In addition to the State’s military history, New York was home to several people who helped found the country’s fledgling government. Philip Schuyler, a Continental Army general, also served in the Continental Congress.

John Jay and Alexander Hamilton played critical roles in the drafting of the Constitution and promoting its ratification. The State’s first governor, George Clinton, was a leading advocate for the drafting of a bill of rights and his work on its behalf helped secure the ratification of the first ten amendments.

New York was also the scene of the worst betrayal of the Revolutionary War. Major General Benedict Arnold attempted to surrender West Point to the British in return for a commission in the Royal Army and a pension. His plan was discovered when his British contact, Major John Andre, was captured with Arnold’s written plans to surrender the Fort. Arnold fled New York and would later die a disgraced person in London.

Objects on display include: portrait of George Washington, portrait of the Marquis de Lafayette, George Washington’s ceremonial sword, pistol given to Washington by Lafayette, Revolutionary War Musket, Revolutionary War soldier’s kit, including haversack, ammunition, powder horn and canteen, 1775 General Association document,  Poughkeepsie Journal, fragment of letter from George Washington to Governor George Clinton, original copy of the State’s first Constitution, and Benedict Arnold treason papers.

Information on other American Revolutionary War sites of interest in New York State can be found on the Governor’s website at www.NY4thofJuly.com. 

Oval Office Chat Session: Obama and President-elect Nieto of Mexico

President Reaffirms U.S. Commitment to Mexico Partnership

Today the President called Enrique Peña Nieto, President-elect of Mexico, to congratulate him on his victory based on the initial results issued by Mexico’s electoral authorities. 

The two leaders reaffirmed the close bilateral partnership the United States and Mexico enjoy based on mutual respect, shared responsibility, and the deep connections between our people. 

The President reiterated his commitment to working in partnership with Mexico, and looks forward to advancing common goals, including promoting democracy, economic prosperity, and security in the region and around the globe, in the coming years. 

President Obama also congratulated the Mexican people who have once again demonstrated their commitment to democratic values through a free, fair, and transparent election process.  

Addabbo Co-Sponsors Bill to Improve Early Childhood Education in Day Care Centers

Bill Approved by Full Legislature: Next Step is Governor’s Desk

Queens, NY - Senator Joseph Addabbo, Jr. (D-Howard Beach), a member of the Senate Education Committee, announced that legislation he co-sponsors (S.5650), requiring a thorough review of early childhood education programs in New York day care centers, has been approved by the full Legislature.

“Early childhood education kick-starts a child’s academic journey, and is proven to ensure greater success later on in school,” said Addabbo, noting that the legislation was drafted with an eye towards securing federal funding for improvements in New York’s day care system. 

“Taking a good hard look at our current day care education programs, and seeing what we’re doing right and what we could be doing even better, is an important investment in our future.”

Under the legislation, the State Education Department, Office of Children and Family Services, and State Health Department would collaborate on an analysis of existing early childhood education being offered in day care programs for kids up to age 5.  

The study would examine existing state childhood education regulations, look at educational and training requirements for day care employees, evaluate health and social services available in day care settings, and review all funding streams available for these programs. 

Addabbo noted that there is a nationwide movement to improve early childhood education, part of which has resulted in the Obama Administration’s Early Learning Challenge Fund.  

The fund, which offers competitive grants to states, is intended to eliminate the school readiness gap in young children and to provide kids up to age five with an early start in education. 

“New York State applied for $100 million last year from the Early Learning Challenge Fund, and we didn’t make the cut,” said Addabbo.  

“But by undertaking a top-to-bottom review of our state’s early childhood education programs in day care centers, we can take a big step towards getting ourselves in the running and demonstrating New York’s commitment to giving our kids a quality, early start on the path to becoming successful, productive adults.”

           

Now that the legislation has been approved by the State Senate and Assembly, it will be forwarded to Governor Cuomo for his review and approval.

Resorts World Casino Robbed

Statement from New York State Senator Joseph Addabbo, Jr. 

Queens, NY – New York State Senator Joseph Addabbo, Jr. (D-Howard Beach), released the following statement following the robbery at Resorts World at Aqueduct casino:

While I am thankful that nobody was injured during last week’s robbery, and that such incidents normally don’t occur at Resorts World, I do have serious concerns regarding the procedures that are in place which would allow an individual to take a bag of money from the cashier window, down to street level, out of the casino, across the parking lot, and escape to the street. I am interested in the possible changes in the method of notifying the police in a timely manner and the practice of monitoring a situation in progress. I will continue to advocate for the hiring of additional security personnel on the premises of the casino in an effort to create jobs and supplement the safety of the patrons there.

Details on the robbery are available here: Queens Casino Robbed at Gunpoint

Image courtesy of http://freevectorstuff.blogspot.com.

SUNY Student Assembly President Calls on Lawmakers to Protect Students

SUNY Student Assembly President Kevin Rea

Says SUNY Students Among Those Hurt by Changes in Stafford Loans

New York – SUNY Student Assembly President Kevin Rea today called on Congress to reevaluate provisions in their deal to delay rate increases for federally subsidized student loans which, according to Rea, amounts to “moving money from one student aid program to another.”

“The recent deal reached by Congress to delay student interest rates from increasing for a year is good news, but still leaves this critical issue with no long term solution and in fact goes further to make the situation worse for graduate students,” said Rea. 

“This new law sets a dangerous precedent, which states we can solve financial aid problems by simply creating others.” 

As part of a deal to fund lower interest rates for undergraduate student loans, beginning in June 2013, graduate students will no longer be eligible for subsidized Stafford loans.

Subsidized loans allow for those with demonstrated financial need to accrue interest on their loans beginning at graduation.

With these changes, graduate students will begin to accrue interest from the moment they take out the loan, and must now begin paying off that interest while still in school.

Undergraduates also take a hit, now being forced to pay immediately upon graduation rather than the previous 6-month delay that was in place to allow them to get settled in the workforce.

“These changes come at a time when many Americans are already struggling financially. We may live in a political world, but access to higher education should be a nonpartisan priority,” added Rea.

“College and university students are training to be the next generation of thinkers and doers that ensure America can compete in the 21st century economy. The hefty debt they are saddled with after graduation, and now in many cases while they are enrolled, makes their success even more difficult. Congress must help ease this burden.”

The Student Assembly of the State University of New York (“SUNY SA”) is an organization comprised of student leaders elected by their peers from across SUNY’s 64 campuses.

“We’re all about empowering students, and the SUNY SA is committed to student life and ensuring the representation of its members on the state and national level, as well as throughout the SUNY system,” concluded Rea.

Photo courtesy of http://www.suny.edu.

Top Newsy Headlines: Mexico's Former Ruling Party Claims Win

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By Steven Sparkman
Anchor: Logan Tittle
Video courtesy of Newsy.com

Barclays Chairman to Resign in Wake of Scandal

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By Christina Hartman
Anchor: Christina Hartman
Video courtesy of Newsy.com

Apple Pays China $60 Mill for iPad Trademark

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By Logan Tittle
Anchor: Logan Tittle
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Turkey Steps Up Economic Relations with Iraq's Kurdish Region

In the Kurdish capital of Irbil, a new world of luxury stores, hotels and restaurants has emerged due to Turkish investment. The Kurdish region was one of the poorest in Iraq, but in the past five years tens of billions of dollars have been invested there. There are more than 1,000 Turkish companies registered, and Turkish construction workers are changing Irbil's skyline using an estimated 30,000 Turkish labourers from its own economically depressed Kurdish areas. This leads many to believe that Turkey's closer relationship with Iraq is not only political, but economic. Al Jazeera's Jane Arraf reports from Irbil, Iraq

Georgia Plans 'Dubai Style' Economic Zone

Georgia has started work on a brand new city on its Black Sea coast. Built on unoccupied marshes and skirting Kolkheti National Park, the Georgian development-focused government expects Lazika to hold half a million people. The Dubai-style free economic zone will be fuelled by tax breaks for investors and a special constituational status, but critics say plans for a brand new city are fantastical, and a potential disaster for the area's biodiversity. Al Jazeera's Rory Challands reports from Western Georgia.

Pena Nieto 'Wins Mexico Presidential Vote'

Enrique Pena Nieto, the young face of Mexico's oldest political party, looks to have been chosen to lead his country out of arguably the most turbulent period in its history since the Mexican Revolution. Pena Nieto's PRI, which governed Mexico for 71 years until losing in 2000, has staged a comeback since the candidate was chosen. The challenges facing any new president are enormous, including reducing poverty and combating the corruption and violence of organised crime. But exit polls appear to show that there are enough Mexicans who believe Pena Nieto when he says his victory is not a regression to the past, but a transition to a new, less violent and more democratic era. Al Jazeera's Lucia Newman reports from Mexico City.

Landmark Arms Trade Treaty Gains Momentum

Activists around the world are campaigning for the first ever Arms Trade Treaty, and the U.S. - while still the world's largest exporter of weapons - is prepared to lend it's influence towards the campaign. Arms are a 60 billion dollar a year business -- with the potential to escalate conflict and contribute to atrocities. While fruit and bottled water are subject to strict international trade rules, the conventional weapons market is currently open to anyone. Al Jazeera's Kristen Saloomey reports from The United Nations.

White House Responds to Kenya Attacks, EU Actions on Iranian Oil

Statements by Press Secretary Jay Carney

On the Kenya attacks:

The United States strongly condemns the recent attacks on innocent civilians attending church services in Kenya.  The attacks on two churches in Garissa follow shortly after the killing of one aid worker and the kidnapping of four others in Dadaab refugee camp this week, as well as an attack on a nightclub in Mombasa last weekend.  The perpetrators of these attacks have shown no respect for human life and dignity, and must be brought to justice for these heinous acts. 

At a time of transition, peace and stability are essential to Kenya's progress.  We support those who recognize Kenya’s ethnic and religious diversity as one of the country’s greatest strengths. 

The United States extends its deepest condolences to the families of those killed and to those wounded by these attacks, and we stand with the Kenyan people at this difficult time.

On the European Union Actions on Iranian Oil:

The United States welcomes the European Union’s prohibition of all Iranian crude oil imports and other sanctions on Iran's oil industry, which go into full effect today.  This collective decision of the 27 countries of the European Union represents a substantial additional commitment on the part of our European allies and partners to seek a peaceful resolution that addresses the international community’s concerns about Iran’s nuclear program.  The United States and the European Union are committed to holding Iran accountable for failing to meet its international obligations.  With this decision, our partners in the EU have underscored the seriousness with which the international community views the challenge of Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

This action is an essential part of our concerted diplomatic efforts to present Iran with a clear choice between isolation or meetings its obligations.  Iran has an opportunity to pursue substantive negotiations, beginning with expert level talks this week in Istanbul, and must take concrete steps toward a comprehensive resolution of the international community’s concerns with Iran’s nuclear activities.  

Severe East Coast Storm Causes Massive Power Outages

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By John O'Connor
Anchor: Christian Byrant
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Mexico's PRI Expected to Win Presidential Election

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By Christina Hartman
Anchor: Christina Hartman
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Japan Restarts Nuclear Reactor

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By Logan Tittle
Anchor: Logan Tittle
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Australia Enacts New Carbon Tax

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By John O'Connor
Anchor: Neville Miller
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