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Pacquiao’s fight to end sex trade

May 19th, 2013 No comments

Editor’s note: This article is part of The Fighters, a series of reports from a full-length film that premieres on CNN International TV on May 17 and 18 at 1900 HKT; 2200 CET; 2200 ET. The documentary is a result of two years of undercover work and filming in the Philippines.

Manila, Philippines (CNN) — Birds chirp outside. A motorcycle groans up a nearby hill. And in a small, warm room filled with books and framed drawings, a young woman we’re calling Maria tears at a tissue as she prepares to tell how sex traffickers corrupted her life.

“I was 15 when I was recruited,” she said. “I had to find a job because my father had a lung problem and I needed to find money so we could send him to the hospital.”

Maria met a person in her province who said he could find her a job in Manila.

“I thought I was going to work as a dishwasher in a restaurant,” she said. “But when I arrived I realized it was a ‘casa.’” ‘Casa’ is a code word for brothel in the Philippines.

Many young girls fall prey to human traffickers. They often leave their homes and villages in the provinces, seeking opportunities to support their families.

The traffickers are adept at convincing them to travel with them.

Cecilia Flores-Oebanda is presented with The World's Children's Prize for the Rights of the Child by Sweden's Queen Silvia on April 28, 2011.Cecilia Flores-Oebanda is presented with The World’s Children’s Prize for the Rights of the Child by Sweden’s Queen Silvia on April 28, 2011.

Manny Pacquaio, with Oebanda, meets girls rescued from human traffickers. The girls shared their stories with Pacquaio, who also spoke at congress in support of an anti-trafficking law.Manny Pacquaio, with Oebanda, meets girls rescued from human traffickers. The girls shared their stories with Pacquaio, who also spoke at congress in support of an anti-trafficking law.

Oebanda with President Jimmy Carter at the 2008 Skoll World Forum where she recieved the Skoll Award for Social Entrepreneurship Oebanda with President Jimmy Carter at the 2008 Skoll World Forum where she recieved the Skoll Award for Social Entrepreneurship

Oebanda meets with Desmond Tutu in 2008 while both were speaking at the Global Philanthropy Forum.Oebanda meets with Desmond Tutu in 2008 while both were speaking at the Global Philanthropy Forum.

Oebanda receives the 2005 Anti-Slavery Award at Chatham House in London on November 29, 2005. The award was presented by Lord Bill Brett, director of the International Labour Organization.Oebanda receives the 2005 Anti-Slavery Award at Chatham House in London on November 29, 2005. The award was presented by Lord Bill Brett, director of the International Labour Organization.

Oebanda speaks before the Philippine Senate during deliberations about the Magna Carta on Domestic Workers in 2002. The legislation was designed to improve conditions for domestic workers in the country.Oebanda speaks before the Philippine Senate during deliberations about the Magna Carta on Domestic Workers in 2002. The legislation was designed to improve conditions for domestic workers in the country.

Oebanda attends the first Southeast Asian Consultation, meeting to draft legislation on domestic workers in 2005. The meeting was organized by the Visayan Forum.Oebanda attends the first Southeast Asian Consultation, meeting to draft legislation on domestic workers in 2005. The meeting was organized by the Visayan Forum.

Oebanda is seen in the late 1990's working in poor communities of Manila with the Child Watch Network.Oebanda is seen in the late 1990′s working in poor communities of Manila with the Child Watch Network.

Oebanda's first day outside prison, with her children on February 26, 1986. She was captured while fighting for rebel forces against the dictatorship of President Ferdinand Marcos.Oebanda’s first day outside prison, with her children on February 26, 1986. She was captured while fighting for rebel forces against the dictatorship of President Ferdinand Marcos.


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Anti-trafficker attracts power brokersAnti-trafficker attracts power brokers


Government: 100,000 sex workers are kids

“I traveled through the islands. It took me 24 hours to reach Manila. When I got there, I found 16 girls staying in the same small place. Some were as young as 13-years-old,” she said.

Maria was trapped and forced to have sex with a number of foreign and Filipino men.

Although she was there for only a few weeks before the Filipino police raided the apartment and freed her and the others, the damage had been done.

Maria routinely saw up to 13 customers a day. Her captors forced her to go to extreme lengths to deceive them into thinking she was a virgin in order to command higher prices.

“We were forced to take a cotton ball and dip it in pigeon’s blood, then put that in our sex organ,” she says. As outrageous as that is, it is not unusual.

In some parts of Asia, anti-trafficking groups have found that men believe sex with a virgin can cure their HIV/AIDS.

Social workers say that’s led to a disturbing trend with tragic consequences for the victims of human trafficking. UNICEF estimates as many as 100,000 children work in the illegal sex trade in the Philippines.

Freedom Fighters

Click here to get full infographic on human trafficking in the Philippines

Many women are also forced to prostitute themselves, not because of financial circumstances, but because they fear violence against themselves or their families, if they try to escape.

While filming the CNN Freedom Project documentary, we interviewed three girls, whose story was so profound and distressing, it left me in tears, the only time in my 15-year career that’s happened.

The interview started out normally, with the girls singing into the microphone and telling us about Tom Jerry cartoons and the crushes they had on the musician Bruno Mars.

They seemed like typical 12-year-olds, but what they would tell us about what they’d been through, stopped me cold.

“The trauma is really so deep,” says Cecilia Flores-Oebanda, the director of the Visayan Forum Foundation, an organization that cares for recued girls. “They wake up in the middle of the night screaming and crying because they are so afraid the trafficker will come again. Sometimes one of the kids suddenly gets sick and vomits. Our psychologist said it’s because she remembers what these guys on the Internet asked her to do.”

Read Oebanda’s amazing story — from rebel fighter to anti-trafficking icon but now she has a new fight

One of the girls said: “At the internet café they tell me to take my clothes off and then they make me dance [in front of the camera]. I was kind of embarrassed because I’m not used to being naked like that.”


Child advocate wants Pacquiao’s help

Manny Pacquiao is known the world over for his boxing abilities, but in the Philippines he's also a national hero beyond the ring. Click through to see moments of Pacquiao's life. Manny Pacquiao is known the world over for his boxing abilities, but in the Philippines he’s also a national hero beyond the ring. Click through to see moments of Pacquiao’s life.

Pacquiao, center, and his wife Jinkee, right, display their certificates of candidacy at the election office in Alabel, Sarangani province, in the southern island of Mindanao, on October 2, 2012. Pacquiao registered to run for reelection as a congressman for the southern province of Sarangani, with Jinkee filing to stand for vice-governor. Pacquiao, center, and his wife Jinkee, right, display their certificates of candidacy at the election office in Alabel, Sarangani province, in the southern island of Mindanao, on October 2, 2012. Pacquiao registered to run for reelection as a congressman for the southern province of Sarangani, with Jinkee filing to stand for vice-governor.

Pacquiao attends a plenary session discussing a proposed reproductive health bill at the House of Representatives at Congress in Quezon City, east of Manila, Philippines, August 6, 2012.Pacquiao attends a plenary session discussing a proposed reproductive health bill at the House of Representatives at Congress in Quezon City, east of Manila, Philippines, August 6, 2012.

Pacquiao gestures during a prayer rally at the Araneta Coliseum in Manila on July 28, 2012. The prayer rally was a way for Pacquiao to thank his fans and supporters for the blessings he received.Pacquiao gestures during a prayer rally at the Araneta Coliseum in Manila on July 28, 2012. The prayer rally was a way for Pacquiao to thank his fans and supporters for the blessings he received.

Pacquiao gives a sack of rice and relief goods to a woman after floods struck in Glan, Sarangani province, southern Philippines, June 17, 2012. Pacquiao gives a sack of rice and relief goods to a woman after floods struck in Glan, Sarangani province, southern Philippines, June 17, 2012.

Pacquiao speaks to flood-affected residents at an evacuation center in Cagayan de Oro City, a southern island off Mindanao on December 23, 2011.Pacquiao speaks to flood-affected residents at an evacuation center in Cagayan de Oro City, a southern island off Mindanao on December 23, 2011.

Pacquiao is conferred the rank of lieutenant colonel by Maj. Gen. Emmanuel Bautista, left, and Brig. Gen. Alex Albano, right, in Manila, on December 5, 2011.Pacquiao is conferred the rank of lieutenant colonel by Maj. Gen. Emmanuel Bautista, left, and Brig. Gen. Alex Albano, right, in Manila, on December 5, 2011.

Pacquiao sits with fellow lawmakers during the 15th Congress at the House of Representatives in Quezon City on July 25, 2011.Pacquiao sits with fellow lawmakers during the 15th Congress at the House of Representatives in Quezon City on July 25, 2011.

Pacquiao shakes hands with a Special Forces Operation Course student during the 49th Special Forces Regiment anniversary at Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija, north of Manila, on June 27, 2011. During the event, Pacquiao received the Honorary Special Forces Warrior Badge, and wore the exclusive Special Forces uniform popularly known as the Tiger suit.Pacquiao shakes hands with a Special Forces Operation Course student during the 49th Special Forces Regiment anniversary at Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija, north of Manila, on June 27, 2011. During the event, Pacquiao received the Honorary Special Forces Warrior Badge, and wore the exclusive Special Forces uniform popularly known as the “Tiger suit.”

Pacquiao looks toward Congressman Edcel Lagman, right, at the House of Representatives on May 18, 2011.Pacquiao looks toward Congressman Edcel Lagman, right, at the House of Representatives on May 18, 2011.

Pacquiao speaks at a news conference during the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines in May 2011.Pacquiao speaks at a news conference during the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines in May 2011.

Pacquiao and U.S. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid exchange flags in Washington on February 15, 2011.Pacquiao and U.S. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid exchange flags in Washington on February 15, 2011.

Pacquiao waves as he joins hundreds of other runners in Manila on October 10, 2010, to raise funds and environmental awareness to help revive the Pasig River, a heavily polluted major waterway that cuts through the city of 12 million.Pacquiao waves as he joins hundreds of other runners in Manila on October 10, 2010, to raise funds and environmental awareness to help revive the Pasig River, a heavily polluted major waterway that cuts through the city of 12 million.

Pacquiao joins Harry Reid, a Nevada senator, on the campaign trail at the Orr Middle School in Las Vegas, Nevada, on October 29, 2010, ahead of the midterm U.S. elections.Pacquiao joins Harry Reid, a Nevada senator, on the campaign trail at the Orr Middle School in Las Vegas, Nevada, on October 29, 2010, ahead of the midterm U.S. elections.

Pacquiao tries out whitewater rafting to promote tourism in his district in New La Union in Maitum, Sarangani province, on August 14, 2010.Pacquiao tries out whitewater rafting to promote tourism in his district in New La Union in Maitum, Sarangani province, on August 14, 2010.

Pacquiao attends a session of the Lower House as congressman representing his home district of Sarangani during the State of The Nation address of President Benigno NoyNoy Aquino on July 26, 2010.Pacquiao attends a session of the Lower House as congressman representing his home district of Sarangani during the State of The Nation address of President Benigno “NoyNoy” Aquino on July 26, 2010.

Pacquiao listens during the turnover ceremony for the new commanding general of the Philippine army at Fort Bonifacio on July 23, 2010. Pacquiao listens during the turnover ceremony for the new commanding general of the Philippine army at Fort Bonifacio on July 23, 2010.

Pacquiao takes his oath of office as congressman at the provincial capitol in Alabel, Sarangani province, on June 28, 2010.Pacquiao takes his oath of office as congressman at the provincial capitol in Alabel, Sarangani province, on June 28, 2010.

Pacquiao holds his daughter Queen Elizabeth as he talks to members of the media during his victory party for winning a seat in parliament -- held jointly with her birthday celebration -- at a convention center on the southern island of Mindanao on May 15, 2010. Pacquiao holds his daughter Queen Elizabeth as he talks to members of the media during his victory party for winning a seat in parliament — held jointly with her birthday celebration — at a convention center on the southern island of Mindanao on May 15, 2010.

Pacquiao celebrates with local officials during his proclamation as congressman of Sarangani province in May 2010.Pacquiao celebrates with local officials during his proclamation as congressman of Sarangani province in May 2010.

Pacquiao plays billiards at his recreational center in General Santos, Mindanao, in May 2010.Pacquiao plays billiards at his recreational center in General Santos, Mindanao, in May 2010.

Pacquiao places his ballot into a vote-counting machine in Kiamba, Sarangani province, on May 10, 2010.Pacquiao places his ballot into a vote-counting machine in Kiamba, Sarangani province, on May 10, 2010.

Pacquiao greets supporters during a campaign rally in Kiamba in April 2010.Pacquiao greets supporters during a campaign rally in Kiamba in April 2010.

Pacquiao, center, greets supporters with presidential candidate Manny Villar, right, and vice-presidential candidate Loren Legarda, left, as he starts his campaign for Congress in March 2010. Pacquiao, center, greets supporters with presidential candidate Manny Villar, right, and vice-presidential candidate Loren Legarda, left, as he starts his campaign for Congress in March 2010.

Pacquiao poses with his certificate of candidacy next to his wife, Jinkee, after filing in the town of Alabel, Saragani province, on December 1, 2009. Pacquiao poses with his certificate of candidacy next to his wife, Jinkee, after filing in the town of Alabel, Saragani province, on December 1, 2009.


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Pacquiao outside the ringPacquiao outside the ring

In these rarely seen photos, taken by Manny Pacquiao's personal photographer James Dayap, we take a glimpse at the boxer's training regimen for the Timothy Bradley fight in June 2012, which would become one of the most controversial bouts of his career. In these rarely seen photos, taken by Manny Pacquiao’s personal photographer James Dayap, we take a glimpse at the boxer’s training regimen for the Timothy Bradley fight in June 2012, which would become one of the most controversial bouts of his career.

Pacquiao was awarded the title Fighter of the Decade for the 2000s by the World Boxing Organization (WBO), World Boxing Council (WBC) and the Boxing Writers Association of America (BWAA).Pacquiao was awarded the title “Fighter of the Decade” for the 2000s by the World Boxing Organization (WBO), World Boxing Council (WBC) and the Boxing Writers Association of America (BWAA).

At the age of 14, Pacquiao moved to Manila, the Philippines, and started boxing. For a time, he lived on the streets.At the age of 14, Pacquiao moved to Manila, the Philippines, and started boxing. For a time, he lived on the streets.

Pacquiao trained in Los Angeles for the welterweight title match against Bradley.Pacquiao trained in Los Angeles for the welterweight title match against Bradley.

The WBO welterweight title fight was held on June 9, 2012, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.The WBO welterweight title fight was held on June 9, 2012, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

The fight ended with Bradley winning a split decision that sparked controversy throughout the boxing world.The fight ended with Bradley winning a split decision that sparked controversy throughout the boxing world.


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Pacquiao in trainingPacquiao in training

Often that wasn’t enough for paying customers on the other side of the sex chat room. For $27 an hour, anyone could tell the girls what to do, and a man behind the camera would make sure they did it.

The girls told of men coming in off the street and the girls having to perform sexual acts. Animals were sometimes involved. And perverts took deranged pleasure in watching the girls suffer these terrible abuses.

“Sometimes we had to urinate,” says the girl in the middle. Her friend to the right adds: “The urine is mixed with juice as a drink.”

“That’s what the American client wants. He demands anyone who feels like urinating should do so, but that he wants us to do it in front of the camera.”

I asked the children what they think about Americans.

“You’re maniacs,” one of the girls says, sharply. “You need to stop victimizing girls like us.”

Read what happened when CNN journalists went undercover in Manila’s red light district

The Visayan Forum Foundation, which has operated in the Philippines since 1991, says it has reached out to more than 70,000 victims or potential victims of human trafficking, and provided services to, or helped rescue, more than 15,000 victims.

“The cases we handle in the Visayan Forum is always on trafficking for prostitution and domestic servitude,” says Oebanda. “Now there’s a new phenomenon of trafficking for cybersex. We observe that [the victims] are becoming younger and younger.”

During filming, we witnessed several raids conducted by the Philippines Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking, referred to commonly as IACAT.

One of those raids involved two suspected traffickers and four teenage girls coming in to Manila aboard a passenger ferry. Officers with the Coast Guard and Port of Manila police intercepted the group before they could disembark.

“One of the [girls] is around 15 years old and another one is around 16 or 17 years old, so that’s a qualified case of human trafficking,” says Oebanda.

They told social workers they were heading to a city north of Manila where the trafficker planned a live show in a cybersex den and where they would be prostituted.

Oebanda and lawyers with the Philippines’ Department of Justice filed charges against the two suspects, realizing it could be years before the trial is finished.

New cases like these were always heartbreaking for Maria, whose own attempts to embrace a new life were cruelly snatched away. In March this year, she died from complications as she gave birth to her second child, social workers told CNN.

One of the last things Maria said to CNN was a message to warn others.

“Please, do not to believe all the promises, especially from people you don’t know, because a lot of things can happen if you leave with them.”


Article source: http://edition.cnn.com/2013/05/06/world/asia/freedom-fighter-victims/index.html?eref=edition

Article source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NewsRipplesWeb/~3/MnDymKbcKHQ/pacquiaos-fight-to-end-sex-trade

Article source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/RipleysStuff/~3/_vNafL_HyRo/pacquiaos-fight-to-end-sex-trade

Breaking soccer’s gay taboo

May 19th, 2013 No comments


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It was only a few months ago there was news David Beckham had a href='http://news.blogs.cnn.com/2013/01/31/beckham-to-join-paris-saint-germain-club-says/' target='_blank'signed on with a new team/a -- and now a href='http://www.cnn.com/2013/05/16/sport/football/david-beckham-retires-football/index.html?hpt=hp_t2'he is retiring./a Click through for a look back at Beckham through the years. It was only a few months ago there was news David Beckham had signed on with a new team — and now he is retiring. Click through for a look back at Beckham through the years.

Beckham poses with Paris Saint-Germain President Nasser Al-Khelaifi, left, and PSG sports director Leonardo during a press conference announcing his new gig in January 2013.Beckham poses with Paris Saint-Germain President Nasser Al-Khelaifi, left, and PSG sports director Leonardo during a press conference announcing his new gig in January 2013.

Beckham makes his England debut at a World Cup Europe Qualifying Round Group 2 match against Moldova in 1996.Beckham makes his England debut at a World Cup Europe Qualifying Round Group 2 match against Moldova in 1996.

Beckham celebrates his goal in the 1998 World Cup Finals versus Colombia in 1998.Beckham celebrates his goal in the 1998 World Cup Finals versus Colombia in 1998.

Becks as a member of Manchester United cools down during the FA Charity Shield match against Arsenal at Wembley Stadium in London in 1998.Becks as a member of Manchester United cools down during the FA Charity Shield match against Arsenal at Wembley Stadium in London in 1998.

At the 1998 World Cup in France, in a second-round match against Argentina, Beckham was sent off for kicking out at Diego Simeone. England lost the match on penalties and was eliminated, with Beckham becoming a hate figure for some fans.At the 1998 World Cup in France, in a second-round match against Argentina, Beckham was sent off for kicking out at Diego Simeone. England lost the match on penalties and was eliminated, with Beckham becoming a hate figure for some fans.

Beckham poses after a press conference in Awaji-shima Island, Japan, in 2002.Beckham poses after a press conference in Awaji-shima Island, Japan, in 2002.

Beckham poses with Beyonce, left, and Jennifer Lopez during a presentation of the new Pepsi Samourai in Madrid in 2004.Beckham poses with Beyonce, left, and Jennifer Lopez during a presentation of the new Pepsi “Samourai” in Madrid in 2004.

Becks waves after a la Liga match between Real Madrid and Deportivo La Coruna in Madrid in 2007.Becks waves after a la Liga match between Real Madrid and Deportivo La Coruna in Madrid in 2007.

The midfielder celebrates with his sons in 2007 after Real Madrid won the Spanish League title by beating Mallorca.The midfielder celebrates with his sons in 2007 after Real Madrid won the Spanish League title by beating Mallorca.

Beckham makes an appearance to promote his fragrance David Beckham Intimately Night in Sydney in 2007.Beckham makes an appearance to promote his fragrance “David Beckham Intimately Night” in Sydney in 2007.

Beckham reveals his new No. 32 Adidas jersey as part of an announcement of the start of his loan move to AC Milan from the Los Angeles Galaxy in 2008.Beckham reveals his new No. 32 Adidas jersey as part of an announcement of the start of his loan move to AC Milan from the Los Angeles Galaxy in 2008.

Beckham controls the ball during the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifier of European Group 6.Beckham controls the ball during the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifier of European Group 6.

Beckham unveils the new Emporio Armani underwear ad campaign for the fall/winter of 2009-2010.Beckham unveils the new Emporio Armani underwear ad campaign for the fall/winter of 2009-2010.

Beckham, No. 23 of the Los Angeles Galaxy soccer team, walks toward the line judge to have a chat during Game 1 of the MLS Western Conference Semifinals against Chivas USA in 2009.Beckham, No. 23 of the Los Angeles Galaxy soccer team, walks toward the line judge to have a chat during Game 1 of the MLS Western Conference Semifinals against Chivas USA in 2009.

Becks arrives at Sydney International Airport in 2010.Becks arrives at Sydney International Airport in 2010.

David and Victoria Beckham arrive at the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton at Westminster Abbey in 2011.David and Victoria Beckham arrive at the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton at Westminster Abbey in 2011.

The Beckhams attend the Vanity Fair Oscar Party in West Hollywood, California, in 2012.The Beckhams attend the Vanity Fair Oscar Party in West Hollywood, California, in 2012.

Beckham celebrated his second MLS Cup success with the Los Angeles Galaxy in December 2012, when he decided to leave with a year left on his contract as he sought one final career challenge in Europe.Beckham celebrated his second MLS Cup success with the Los Angeles Galaxy in December 2012, when he decided to leave with a year left on his contract as he sought one final career challenge in Europe.

Beckham passes under Tower Bridge in a speedboat which carries the Olympic Torch and its torchbearer in 2012.Beckham passes under Tower Bridge in a speedboat which carries the Olympic Torch and its torchbearer in 2012.

Beckham acts as England's captain during the 2004 European Nations Championship football match against Croatia in Lisbon, Portugal.Beckham acts as England’s captain during the 2004 European Nations Championship football match against Croatia in Lisbon, Portugal.


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(CNN) — David Beckham was always adept at curling the ball around a wall — but when it came to the barrier of homosexuality in football, he broke straight through it.

Former England captain Beckham, who announced his retirement from football Thursday, was the first superstar footballer to embrace his “gay icon” status, freely giving interviews to gay magazines and openly talking about his gay fan base.

That attitude was the catalyst for a change, according to author and journalist, Chas Newkey-Burden.


Beckham: I want to go out on top


Beckham brand will outlast soccer career


David Beckham calls it a career

Read: Beckham to retire

“What David Beckham did was break the long silence about homosexuality in football,” Newkey-Burden told CNN.

“Before Beckham came along, it was basically a taboo but he changed all that.

“He openly courted his gay fan base, saying he loved being a gay icon and was happy for his wife to broadcast that around.

“He was the first to give interviews to gay magazines — before that, no footballer would have done that.

“He also changed the way footballers were looked at. He was inherently good looking, but it was that he paid so much attention to his appearance that was unprecedented.”

Read: Can you bend it like Beckham?

In an interview with the BBC given in 2007, Beckham spoke of his pride at being tagged as a “gay icon”.

“Maybe it’s things like (the fact) I like to look after myself, I like to look smart and presentable most of the time,” he said at the time.

“I always liked to look good, even when I was a little kid. I was given the option when I was a page boy once of either wearing a suit or wearing knickerbockers and long socks and ballet shoes — and I chose the ballet shoes and knickerbockers.”


2011: Beckham: I always want to win


David Beckham’s life in Paris


Beckham: Tom Cruise is hotter than I am

Once Newkey-Burden spent five months trying to organize an interview with the midfielder, only for the player himself to sanction the piece after reading one of the journalist’s articles on football and homosexuality in Four Four Two magazine.

Read: Rogers’ retirement reasons could bring change

“David read the piece I did about how far football had come in dealing with homophobia,” Newkey-Burden recalled.

“I know he was very moved by the fact I wrote how he had opened the door to change and that is what swung getting me the interview with him.

“Look, there are 92 league clubs in England with each squad having around 20 players, so statistically, there must be some gay players, ” added the journalist.

“One day it will be common place for footballers to come out and David Beckham will have played a part in that.

“He opened the door and it is the person who opens the door who makes the difference.

“Beckham said to the world: ‘I’m straight, I’m the England captain and I think it’s cool people are gay.’”

Despite Beckham embracing his “gay icon” status, football continues to struggle with homophobia.

Last February, U.S. football star Robbie Rogers announced he was retiring from football after “coming out” — leaving Swedish player Anton Hysen as the only openly gay player in Europe.

Rogers might yet make a return given he has been training with Los Angeles Galaxy.

Read: In search of a gay soccer hero

Beckham was also key in footballers becoming fashionistas and attracting interest from the mainstream media, according to Newkey Burden.

“Gay football fans don’t want 11 neatly coiffured and manicured players to admire,” said the journalist and celebrity biographer who has written books about Adele, Brangelina, Michael Jackson and Paris Hilton.

“They’re more attracted to the old-fashioned kind of player like Vinny Jones or Alan Shearer if I’m honest.

David Beckham made an immediate impact at Paris Saint-Germain, with victories in his first two appearances against French rivals Marseille.David Beckham made an immediate impact at Paris Saint-Germain, with victories in his first two appearances against French rivals Marseille.

He was unveiled at the Parc des Princes on the final day of the January 2013 transfer window, and announced that he will donate the pay he receives during his five-month contract to a children's charity in Paris.He was unveiled at the Parc des Princes on the final day of the January 2013 transfer window, and announced that he will donate the pay he receives during his five-month contract to a children’s charity in Paris.

Beckham celebrated his second MLS Cup success with Los Angeles Galaxy in December 2012, when he decided to leave with a year left on his contract as he sought one final career challenge in Europe.Beckham celebrated his second MLS Cup success with Los Angeles Galaxy in December 2012, when he decided to leave with a year left on his contract as he sought one final career challenge in Europe.

David Beckham made his debut for English Premier League team Manchester United in 1993. By 1996, the midfielder was becoming renowned for his ability to score and create goals with his now legendary right foot. In a match against Wimbledon, Beckham stunned football fans by scoring from the halfway line.
David Beckham made his debut for English Premier League team Manchester United in 1993. By 1996, the midfielder was becoming renowned for his ability to score and create goals with his now legendary right foot. In a match against Wimbledon, Beckham stunned football fans by scoring from the halfway line.

Beckham swiftly progressed into the England team and was part of Glenn Hoddle's squad for the 1998 World Cup in France. In a second-round match against Argentina, Beckham was sent off for kicking out at Diego Simeone. England lost the match on penalties and were eliminated, with Beckham becoming a hate figure for some fans.Beckham swiftly progressed into the England team and was part of Glenn Hoddle’s squad for the 1998 World Cup in France. In a second-round match against Argentina, Beckham was sent off for kicking out at Diego Simeone. England lost the match on penalties and were eliminated, with Beckham becoming a hate figure for some fans.

Beckham rebuilt his reputation and in 1999 was a key part of the Manchester United team which became the first English club to win the Premier League, FA Cup and European Champions League in the same season. The Old Trafford side, led by Alex Ferguson, secured the treble thanks to a stunning late comeback against Bayern Munich in the Champions League final.Beckham rebuilt his reputation and in 1999 was a key part of the Manchester United team which became the first English club to win the Premier League, FA Cup and European Champions League in the same season. The Old Trafford side, led by Alex Ferguson, secured the treble thanks to a stunning late comeback against Bayern Munich in the Champions League final.

Beckham's redemption was complete in 2000, when caretaker England manager Peter Taylor made him captain of the national team. He retained the role under Sven-Goran Eriksson, leading England at the 2002 and 2006 World Cups and the 2004 European Championships.Beckham’s redemption was complete in 2000, when caretaker England manager Peter Taylor made him captain of the national team. He retained the role under Sven-Goran Eriksson, leading England at the 2002 and 2006 World Cups and the 2004 European Championships.

In 2003, after a turbulent final few months at United which involved Ferguson accidentally kicking a boot at Beckham, he joined Real Madrid's Galacticos.In 2003, after a turbulent final few months at United which involved Ferguson accidentally kicking a boot at Beckham, he joined Real Madrid’s “Galacticos”.

But Beckham's spell in Madrid didn't produce the trophy rush he had hoped for. His sole title came in 2007, under future England manager Fabio Capello, thanks to a win against Real Mallorca on the final day of the season.But Beckham’s spell in Madrid didn’t produce the trophy rush he had hoped for. His sole title came in 2007, under future England manager Fabio Capello, thanks to a win against Real Mallorca on the final day of the season.

Beckham made the switch to Los Angeles Galaxy in the U.S.'s Major League Soccer in 2007. His stated aim was to raise the profile of soccer in the country.Beckham made the switch to Los Angeles Galaxy in the U.S.’s Major League Soccer in 2007. His stated aim was to raise the profile of soccer in the country.

Four years after heading to the States, Beckham finally won the MLS Cup with Galaxy last season. Galaxy beat Houston Dynamo 1-0 in the final thanks to a goal from Landon Donovan.
Four years after heading to the States, Beckham finally won the MLS Cup with Galaxy last season. Galaxy beat Houston Dynamo 1-0 in the final thanks to a goal from Landon Donovan.

Off the pitch, Beckham is famous for being one half of one of the world's most high-profile couples. He started dating Victoria Adams of British pop group Spice Girls in 1997. The pair married in 1999 and have four children, son Brooklyn, Romeo and Cruz and daughter Harper Seven.
Off the pitch, Beckham is famous for being one half of one of the world’s most high-profile couples. He started dating Victoria Adams of British pop group Spice Girls in 1997. The pair married in 1999 and have four children, son Brooklyn, Romeo and Cruz and daughter Harper Seven.

Football fans wear masks depicting Beckham at the London 2012 Olympics. He was not picked for the GB team, but played a big role in his hometown being awarded the Games.Football fans wear masks depicting Beckham at the London 2012 Olympics. He was not picked for the GB team, but played a big role in his hometown being awarded the Games.


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The career of David BeckhamThe career of David Beckham

Hundreds of fans and journalists flocked to the Paris Saint-Germain training ground Wednesday to get a glimpse of David Beckham in action on the practice field. The interest in Beckham's move to the French club has caused huge excitement with the anticipation building ahead of the midfielder's possible debut on Sunday.Hundreds of fans and journalists flocked to the Paris Saint-Germain training ground Wednesday to get a glimpse of David Beckham in action on the practice field. The interest in Beckham’s move to the French club has caused huge excitement with the anticipation building ahead of the midfielder’s possible debut on Sunday.

David Beckham took part in his first training session with his new Paris Saint-Germain teammates less than 24 hours after watching them claim a 2-1 win at Valencia in the last-16 round of the Champions League. on Tuesday. David Beckham took part in his first training session with his new Paris Saint-Germain teammates less than 24 hours after watching them claim a 2-1 win at Valencia in the last-16 round of the Champions League. on Tuesday.

Beckham, 37, was put through is paces at the club's open training day where more than 100 journalists turned up to witness the event. The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star is hoping to make his debut against Sochaux on Sunday, but it's not known if his pop star wife Victoria will be in attendance. Beckham's family has remained in London where his children Brooklyn, Romeo and Cruz attend school following their move from Los Angeles.Beckham, 37, was put through is paces at the club’s open training day where more than 100 journalists turned up to witness the event. The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star is hoping to make his debut against Sochaux on Sunday, but it’s not known if his pop star wife Victoria will be in attendance. Beckham’s family has remained in London where his children Brooklyn, Romeo and Cruz attend school following their move from Los Angeles.

Beckham, who won 115 caps for England, has signed a five-month deal with the Qatari-backed club, but has revealed that his salary will be donated to a Paris children's charity. He will now hope to force his way into the side and link up with the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Lucas Moura and Ezequiel Lavezzi with the team six points clear at the top of Ligue 1.Beckham, who won 115 caps for England, has signed a five-month deal with the Qatari-backed club, but has revealed that his salary will be donated to a Paris children’s charity. He will now hope to force his way into the side and link up with the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Lucas Moura and Ezequiel Lavezzi with the team six points clear at the top of Ligue 1.

Beckham waves to the waiting press pack as he makes his way out at the club's Camp des Loges training center in Saint-Germain-en-Laye, near Paris. The session, which was led by PSG's Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti, was shown live on French television.Beckham waves to the waiting press pack as he makes his way out at the club’s Camp des Loges training center in Saint-Germain-en-Laye, near Paris. The session, which was led by PSG’s Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti, was shown live on French television.

Beckham shows off his new pink boots, a pair of which even Posh Spice might approve of. While Beckham is busy preparing for his debut, fashion designer Victoria was having her latest designs shown off by models in London.Beckham shows off his new pink boots, a pair of which even Posh Spice might approve of. While Beckham is busy preparing for his debut, fashion designer Victoria was having her latest designs shown off by models in London.

After working up a sweat, Beckham throws off his top and gets back to work with the players who didn't feature in Tuesday's win at Valencia. If Beckham doesn't play against Sochaux on Sunday, he could line-up the following week against fierce rival Marseille and fellow Englishman Joey Barton.After working up a sweat, Beckham throws off his top and gets back to work with the players who didn’t feature in Tuesday’s win at Valencia. If Beckham doesn’t play against Sochaux on Sunday, he could line-up the following week against fierce rival Marseille and fellow Englishman Joey Barton.

Beckham takes to the sand as he steps up his training regime. Running on sand has several long-term benefits which includes strengthening the lower body muscles, burning more calories and is supposed to be easier on the joints as opposed to grass.Beckham takes to the sand as he steps up his training regime. Running on sand has several long-term benefits which includes strengthening the lower body muscles, burning more calories and is supposed to be easier on the joints as opposed to grass.

Beckham watched PSG's win at Valencia alongside the club's sporting director Leonardo. The pair looked on as their side edged out Valencia 2-1 in the first leg thanks to goals from Ezequiel Lavezzi and Javier Pastore, before Zlatan Ibrahimovic was sent off late on. The Swede will miss the second leg in the French capital on March 6.Beckham watched PSG’s win at Valencia alongside the club’s sporting director Leonardo. The pair looked on as their side edged out Valencia 2-1 in the first leg thanks to goals from Ezequiel Lavezzi and Javier Pastore, before Zlatan Ibrahimovic was sent off late on. The Swede will miss the second leg in the French capital on March 6.


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'Box Office' Beckham thrills French audience‘Box Office’ Beckham thrills French audience

“But Beckham was someone who was proud to be a gay icon and made it cool too.

“Just look at the number of metrosexuals who have emerged since Beckham.

“It’s now OK for players to have silly, floppy hair and dress in the way they do. He did that.”

Read: The gay footballer who chose freedom

Players now try to trend it like Beckham more often than they try to bend it like Beckham.

From wearing his wife’s underwear to parading around in a sarong, the former Manchester United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain man has never been one to shy away from experimentation.

While former Spice Girl Victoria has gone on to establish herself as a leading fashion designer, it is Beckham who brought men into the 21st century with his eye for the latest trends.

From his outrageous hair styles to his love of grooming and moisturizing, Beckham relaunched the notion of the metroxsexual along with his very own brand of cologne.

Whether it was by provocatively modelng in his Armani underwear or being paraded in front of the press in another exquisitely tailored suit, Beckham set the bar high when it came to looking sharp.

Read: Rise of the metrosexual

“Beckham was the antithesis to the godawful lad culture of the late Nineties,” GQ.co.uk fashion editor Nick Carvell told CNN.

“Being a footballer who was clearly motivated by fashion trends and absolutely loved clothes, he turned the idea of what it meant to be a stylish sportsman at the time on its head.

“Sure he made some mistakes along the way (cornrows), but that’s what made him a trendsetter — he always led and never followed.

Read: David Beckham: The devoted dad

“He was certainly one of the first celebrities to de-stigmatize grooming pursuits that were previously seen as girls-only (his early penchant for highlights comes to mind).

“Lots of people would say that it helps he has an athlete’s body, but there are plenty of sportsman who dress appallingly.

“I think it’s his willingness to try new things combined with a clear appreciation for a good tailor.

“He might have worn the occasional eye-raising get-up when he was younger, but it always fitted perfectly.”

That infamous sarong, which he was pictured wearing in 1998, was certainly one “eye-raising item” but as Newkey-Burden explains, Beckham had no regrets.

“When I interviewed him in 2006, I asked Beckham if he regretted wearing that ‘dress’. He said: ‘No, that’s one of the things I’d do again!’”


Article source: http://edition.cnn.com/2013/05/17/sport/football/football-david-beckham-gay-icon-fashion/index.html?eref=edition

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Fowl play? Giant duck drowns

May 19th, 2013 No comments


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Bad night: Rubber duck recreates a scene more familiar in Hong Kong's Lan Kwai Fong or Wan Chai bar areas.Bad night: Rubber duck recreates a scene more familiar in Hong Kong’s Lan Kwai Fong or Wan Chai bar areas.

No inflatable fun here. A yellow slick is all that remains of the duck.No inflatable fun here. A yellow slick is all that remains of the duck.

But that didn't stop onlookers flocking to the scene.But that didn’t stop onlookers flocking to the scene.

No inflatable fun here. A yellow slick is all that remains of the duck.No inflatable fun here. A yellow slick is all that remains of the duck.


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(CNN) — Hong Kong’s favorite new resident, a giant inflatable duck, took a turn for the worse on Wednesday, looking less like an oversized lovable plaything and more like an unappetizing fried egg on the water.

The 16.5-meter (54 feet) inflatable sculpture mysteriously lost its mojo overnight, deflated and bobbed lifelessly in Victoria Harbour.

Organizers called an urgent duck crisis meeting early Wednesday and didn’t immediately respond to questions about the misfortunes of the duck or whether the deflation was part of regular maintenance, as reported in some local media. A tweet did appear however on the official Harbour City Twitter account, saying: “The Rubber Duck needs to freshen up. Stay tuned for its return.”

Much later in the day, organizers responded and said it was a planned deflation. Why it took so long to clarify and why officials had to get senior management approval to make such a statement seems a little odd and naturally, this got Hong Konger’s busy with the popular pastime of gossiping.


Deflated duck a victim of fowl play?

Not your everyday sight in Hong Kong's Victoria Harbour. A giant 16.5 meter (54 feet) inflatable duck, creatively called 'Rubber Duck' sails into town on Thursday.Not your everyday sight in Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour. A giant 16.5 meter (54 feet) inflatable duck, creatively called ‘Rubber Duck’ sails into town on Thursday.

The duck added a surreal touch to the city's iconic skyline. No doubt those in the Central financial district found time in their busy days to post countless photos to social media taken from their high office perches.The duck added a surreal touch to the city’s iconic skyline. No doubt those in the Central financial district found time in their busy days to post countless photos to social media taken from their high office perches.

The duck has visited 12 cities around the world, including Osaka, Sydney, Sao Paolo and Amsterdam.The duck has visited 12 cities around the world, including Osaka, Sydney, Sao Paolo and Amsterdam.

The duck is the product of Dutch artist Florentijn Hofman. Hofman first conceived the idea in 2001. It makes you feel young again, Hofman says of the duck.
The duck is the product of Dutch artist Florentijn Hofman. Hofman first conceived the idea in 2001. “It makes you feel young again,” Hofman says of the duck.

The duck refers to your childhood when there was no stress or economic pressure, no worry about having to pay the rent, says Hofman.The duck “refers to your childhood when there was no stress or economic pressure, no worry about having to pay the rent,” says Hofman.

The duck is about six stories tall. It is hollow and air pumps work non-stop to keep the duck's shape. Three huge anchors will hold the duck in place in the harbor.The duck is about six stories tall. It is hollow and air pumps work non-stop to keep the duck’s shape. Three huge anchors will hold the duck in place in the harbor.

The duck is on show at Tsim Sha Tsui, beside the Ocean Terminal, Harbour City, until June 9. The duck is on show at Tsim Sha Tsui, beside the Ocean Terminal, Harbour City, until June 9.

After Hong Kong, the duck will head to the United States, though exactly where won't be revealed until about a week before floatation.After Hong Kong, the duck will head to the United States, though exactly where won’t be revealed until about a week before floatation.


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Gallery: Floating into Hong KongGallery: Floating into Hong Kong


Quacking up over art display

The duck has captivated Hong Kong since its arrival earlier this month and news of the duck’s deflation was splashed across Hong Kong media and social networks with many ruminating as to the duck’s health.

Called “Rubber Duck,” it’s the product of Dutch artist Florentijn Hofman. After going on show on May 2, it was to be on display until June 9.

The artist told CNN earlier this month the duck was built locally so it would be easier to fix should there be any duck drama.

Hong Kong is the latest port of call for the duck. It’s previously taken up temporary residence in cities all over the world, including Osaka, Sydney, Sao Paolo and Amsterdam.

The duck hasn’t always enjoyed plain sailing. In 2009 during a port call in Belgium, it was stabbed 42 times by a vandal.

“We don’t know why the person did it,” Hofman said. “But in the Middle Ages there was a moment when they ruined all the sculptures in Europe. We call it a “sculpture storm.” The museum that bought the work spoke about ‘Sculpture Stormers’ that would hit the work – and kill it.”

“But [the incident] brought the people of that town together. The community had a stake out at night and protected it and even the police looked after it. It shows that this piece of art means a lot to people in the vicinity of this work.”

The duck team also closely monitor the weather after the duck copped some nasty treatment during a storm in Belgium.

“There is a crew that has wind speed meters and they follow what the weather does,” Hofman said. “They monitor by computer and monitor the weather so they can react in advance because we don’t want to cry if it gets ripped up.”

For more details on the duck during cheerier times read our earlier report: Hong Kong crazy for giant duck

Freelancer Kate Whitehead contributed to this story.

Article source: http://edition.cnn.com/2013/05/14/travel/hong-kong-duck/index.html?eref=edition

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Importance of being ‘gorgeous’

May 19th, 2013 No comments


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CNN’s Human to Hero series screens every week on World Sport. Click here for show times, videos and features.

(CNN) — “A must-have quality for figure skaters is, I think, gorgeousness.”

Japan’s Daisuke Takahashi throws his head back and laughs, but he is serious.

His is a sport where performance is everything — from the flamboyant routines to the glitzy outfits to the interaction with the crowd.

“The best part about figure skating is how I can have the entire audience’s attention to myself,” the former world champion told CNN’s Human to Hero series.

“I believe performing and showing off is very important, but I constantly prevent myself from becoming too self-absorbed. The audience won’t be moved if I’m performing only for my satisfaction.

“It’s sort of like playing ‘catch.’ For me, when I’m watching musicals or performances, I feel a bit uncomfortable when the actor is too self-absorbed. I like the people who can perform while being sensitive of the atmosphere.”

Takahashi was raised to national hero status in 2010 when he became the first Japanese man to win a world singles title in figure skating, having the previous month become the first to win an Olympic medal in the discipline when he took bronze in Vancouver.

Despite his success — he also won silver at last year’s worlds — the 27-year-old admits he still looks up to his rivals.

“I never thought I have anything special. I’ve always thought about what I don’t have compared to other skaters,” he says.

Read: 102 and still running – the world’s oldest marathon man

“I tend to think like other skaters get more applause than I do. I constantly think about ways I can level up, and I’m often jealous of other skaters,” he adds, laughing. “When I see someone’s cool performance, it makes me want to be like them, and that’s what motivates me.”


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A big part of figure skating is the outfits — often elaborate lycra creations that might otherwise seem more at home in a musical stage show.

“I don’t have long legs and arms, and I am … short,” quips Takahashi. “So I want something that makes me look taller and with longer legs and arms.

“I want something will make me a bit bigger, and so something with flapsthat give my arms a little flow.”

The shoes, with their thin blades, are even more important.

“If I didn’t have them, I wouldn’t be able to skate, so it’s like the heart,” Takahashi says.

“I think it’s something everyone struggles with, especially for me because my shoes don’t last long. I sometimes change them every month or after every competition, and it’s very difficult finding the right shoes. Depending on if the shoes are good, it affects the performance, so it’s very important.”

Read: From the front line to the try line

Born in the city of Kurashiki in Okayama Prefecture, Takahashi wanted to be a gymnast when he was growing up.

But, as fate would have it, an ice rink was built near his home and his future was settled by the practical reality of it being closer than the gymnasium where he infrequently trained.

“My mother’s co-worker who really liked ice skating took me and it made me realize that I really want to do this,” he recalls.

“Figure skating wasn’t famous where I grew up, and the ice rink was just built with a small club team without a professional coach, so the number of skaters was really small. But we all worked together to manage the money, learn tricks, and organize.”


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At junior high school he met Utako Nagamitsu, who has remained his coach ever since — she is currently working alongside the Russian Nikolai Morozov, who is now back on Takahashi’s team after their initial split back in 2008.

Read: Sailing hero’s America’s Cup challenge

“We’ve traveled the world together, which other coaches rarely do,” Takahashi says of Nagamitsu. “Now it’s officially a team, with a nutritionist, trainer, management company, costume maker, music mixer and level check managers, and choreographers.”

Takahashi’s success in 2010 was all the more satisfying because he had only just returned to full fitness after a serious knee injury that sidelined him for a year.

The anterior cruciate ligament problem halted his progress after he won silver at the 2007 world championships — another first for Japan.

“I’m afraid of injuries. The surgery was good for my mental health, but it was about three years later when I was able to get back my flow,” he says.

“As for balancing off-ice and on-ice life, right now I try not to because all of it is part of my private lifestyle. I’ll take breaks to rest my body, but I generally don’t feel like I must take days off.”

Read: From townships to Tour de France

Takahashi took more time out in 2011 when he had to have the bolt from that knee surgery removed, but he recovered the following year to win his first Grand Prix Final — which was held in Sochi, the Russian resort city that will host next year’s Winter Olympics.

“The most significant competition for me is the Olympics. I’ve entered the Olympics twice, but the one at Vancouver is the one I can’t forget about,” Takahashi says.

“It was the season after recovering from my injury. It was a competition that I got so excited I started tearing up before it began, which never happened before.


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“I got hurt, and I struggled, took out my feelings on the people who supported me, and even then I was able to make the Olympics, and through the season it was the only time when I felt like I was actually competing well.

“It wasn’t the perfect performance, but it was my first medal, and I think that was when my life took a different turn.”

Read: ‘Happy’ Gilmore defies sporting cliches

Takahashi is now hoping to earn one of the three men’s places in Japan’s figure skating team for Sochi.

He finished sixth at March’s world championships in Canada, behind fourth-placed compatriot Yuzuru Hanyu but ahead of Takahito Mura in eighth.

Both are much younger — Hanyu is 18 and Mura 22 — and Takahashi is keenly aware that he has a lot of work to do if he is to succeed at Sochi.

“They definitely are rivals, but it’s more like I try hard so that they see me as their rival. Now the level of technicality of skating is very high and they grew up with the new rules, but my generation just adjusted to the new rules … It’s hard keeping up.”

But Takahashi showed last month in Tokyo that he still has what it takes, winning the individual title for the second year in a row at the World Team Trophy event, with Mura fifth.

“Since three years ago when I decided to continue my career until Sochi, I think emotionally I’m doing everything I can to prepare for it, more than any other Olympics ever,” he says.

“I don’t have the Olympics gold medal, so I definitely want it.”


Article source: http://edition.cnn.com/2013/05/15/sport/daisuke-takahashi-figure-skating-japan/index.html?eref=edition

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Oxbow wins Preakness Stakes

May 19th, 2013 No comments


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Oxbow, with jockey Gary Stevens in the irons, wins the 138th running of the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore on Saturday, May 18.Oxbow, with jockey Gary Stevens in the irons, wins the 138th running of the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore on Saturday, May 18.

Stevens celebrates atop of Oxbow as he crosses the finish line.Stevens celebrates atop of Oxbow as he crosses the finish line.

Stevens and Oxbow hold off itsmyluckday, ridden by John Velazquez, at the finish line to win the Preakness Stakes. Stevens and Oxbow hold off itsmyluckday, ridden by John Velazquez, at the finish line to win the Preakness Stakes.

Oxbow, second from right, grabbed the lead out of the gate and never let go. Oxbow, second from right, grabbed the lead out of the gate and never let go.

Horses and jockeys vie for position during the race. Horses and jockeys vie for position during the race.

Heavily favored orb, with jockey Joel Rosario in the irons, leads the field onto the track before the race. Heavily favored orb, with jockey Joel Rosario in the irons, leads the field onto the track before the race.

Fans place bets before a mutuel clerk prior to the race. Fans place bets before a mutuel clerk prior to the race.

Fans watch rapper Armando Pitbull Perez perform prior to the race. Fans watch rapper Armando “Pitbull” Perez perform prior to the race.

A detail view of a feathered hat worn by a spectator.A detail view of a feathered hat worn by a spectator.

Fans wearing festive hats enjoy the festivities prior to the Preakness Stakes. Fans wearing festive hats enjoy the festivities prior to the Preakness Stakes.


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(CNN) — Oxbow, after a sixth-place showing at the Kentucky Derby, led wire-to-wire to claim victory Saturday at the 138th running of the Preakness Stakes.

The horse, ridden by veteran Gary Stevens, dashed the Triple Crown hopes of Orb, which finished fourth at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore.

Itsmyluckday finished second and Mylute was third.

Oxbow’s winning time was 1:57:54 over the 1 3/16-mile course, 4½ seconds slower than the record set by Triple Crown winner Secretariat in 1973.

Oxbow came into the Preakness as a 15-1 shot, and “didn’t get a lot of respect after the Derby,” Stevens, who came out of retirement earlier this year, told NBC.

The 50-year-old Stevens in January took a call from Oxbow trainer D. Wayne Lukas, who he told him “I’m going to have a colt for you.”

That colt was Oxbow.

“His mind was right” on Saturday, said Stevens. He didn’t expect his horse to go to the lead so early, but it didn’t leave him gassed at the end.

“He exploded home coming off the turn,” Stevens said.

Orb, the Derby winner and a 3-5 favorite at the Preakness Stakes, got a clean start from the inside post but soon became boxed in on the rail where he started. He was hemmed in among the other colts, unable to stake a position on the outside as he had in rallying to victory at Churchill Downs on May 4.

The third Triple Crown race, the Belmont Stakes, is set for June 8 in New York.

Stevens, a Hall of Fame jockey, said Oxbow maintained a “nice, easy pace.”

“What you saw out there was the way we trained,” Stevens said. “His ears were up so he was telling me he was comfortable and it was just like we worked out.”

It was the third Preakness victory for Stevens, who had settled into a second career as a race commentator before the call from Lukas.

“He’s like a brother, a coach and a father figure to me,” Stevens said of Lukas, who now claims six Preakness winners.

CNN’s Chelsea J. Carter contributed this report.


Article source: http://edition.cnn.com/2013/05/18/sport/preakness-stakes/index.html?eref=edition

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Car plows into parade-goers in U.S.

May 19th, 2013 No comments
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Denmark wins Eurovision Song Contest

May 19th, 2013 No comments


Denmark's Emmelie de Forest raises her prize next to her team after winning the final of the 2013 Eurovision Song Contest.

London (CNN) — Emmelie de Forest carried Denmark to triumph early Sunday in the Eurovision Song Contest, an annual musical spectacle known for its combination of over-the-top costumes, kitsch pop songs and international rivalries.

Flanked by marching drummers in military-style uniforms and performing in bare feet, de Forest took top spot with a breathy performance of “Only Teardrops.”

Millions of people across Europe and beyond tuned in to watch pop acts from 26 countries take to the stage in the Swedish city of Malmo. Dressed like a new-age Tinkerbell, 20-year-old de Forest bested a field that included the UK contender and 1980s hit-maker Bonnie Tyler.

Azerbaijan’s Farid Mammadov finished second with the song “Hold Me,” and the Ukraine’s Zlata Ognevich took third with “Gravity.”

Tyler, known for her hits “Total Eclipse of the Heart” and “Holding Out for a Hero,” finished in 19th place.

Organizers expected more than 100 million people to tune in for the contest, hosted by Sweden — the 2012 winner of the song contest.

Demark was considered one of the favorites among bookmakers going into the final on Saturday night.

Five nations — France, Germany Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom — get an automatic entry to the final because they are the biggest financial contributors. The previous year’s winner also automatically qualifies, as the host nation.

The 39 countries involved in the contest awarded a set of points from one to eight, then 10 and finally 12 for their favorite songs. Under the rules, they can’t vote for themselves and they must announce the score in both English and French.

Television viewers also cast votes in their respective countries through telephone hotlines, which count for half the final tally. The remainder of the vote is cast by national expert juries, who based their scores on a dress rehearsal performance Friday night.

Many perceive the voting to be tactical, with neighbors or members of regional blocs, such as the former Soviet nations, appearing to base their scoring on geopolitical alliances rather than artistic merit.

Contestants can come from any member country of the European Broadcasting Union, which includes several non-European nations, including Israel, Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Victory may not be welcomed by everyone back home since that nation bears the expense of hosting the following year’s event — a commitment that’s more of a burden at a time of wide austerity in Europe.


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New York slaying considered hate crime

May 19th, 2013 No comments

New York (CNN) — Police are investigating the slaying of a 32-year-old man in the Greenwich Village neighborhood early Saturday as a hate crime because the gunman made multiple anti-gay comments, they said.

It is the third violent attack in two weeks believed to be motivated by anti-gay bias, police said.

The suspect’s anti-gay remarks were noted before the shooting took place, Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly said. The man was seen urinating on the street outside a bar before going inside and making anti-gay comments to the bartender and brandishing a silver handgun.

A little after midnight, the gunman and two other companions confronted the victim, Marc Carson, and another man he was with on the street. The suspect reportedly made anti-gay remarks and asked them whether they were “gay wrestlers,” Kelly said.

Carson and the other man turned toward the taunts, but backed down and kept walking away. They didn’t know it, Kelly said, but the suspect followed them.

The gunman confronted the two men again, before shooting Carson in the face, police said.

Carson was pronounced dead on arrival at Beth Israel Hospital.

Around 4 a.m., a police officer, responding to a radio alert of the shooting, came across the alleged gunman and apprehended him. The suspect turned over a silver Taurus .38-caliber six-shot revolver, according to police.

Police later identified the suspect as Elliot Morales, 33. Police said the suspect had forged identification and they used facial recognition technology to determine his true identity.

Morales faces a charge of second-degree murder as a hate crime, authorities said.

The identities of the suspect’s two companions — at least one of whom Kelly said left the suspect before the shooting — are still not known.

Kelly said that the killing appeared to be “a hate crime, a bias crime.” There were no words that would aggravate the situation, and the victim did not know the perpetrator, he said.

According to Kelly, there have been 22 bias-motivated events this year. That’s up “significantly” from 13 this time last year.

On May 10, five men brutally beat two gay men near Madison Square Garden after the couple was denied entry into an after-hours billiards bar, according to Port Authority Police. The victims suffered severe facial injuries. Police were able to arrest two of the five men; the rest fled the scene.

There was another attack on gay men on May 5, outside of Madison Square Garden following a New York Knicks game. One of the victims told CNN affiliate WCBS he believes the attack wasn’t an isolated incident.

“There is no words to describe the pain, ’cause this was not an attack on us, this was an attack on all of us,” he said.

Kelly said authorities do not believe the acts are connected, but the investigations are ongoing.

“It’s not a pattern,” he said, “but something that concerns us.”

CNN’s Alcione Gonzalez contributed to this report.


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Protests turn violent at Turkish march

May 19th, 2013 No comments


People from Reyhanli, Turkey, chant slogans as riot police block their path on May 18, 2013, during the funerals of victims of a car bomb which went off on May 11.

Reyhanli, Turkey (CNN) — Protesters in a Turkish border town hit by a twin car-bombing a week ago clashed with police Saturday, as they voiced anger over the government’s response to the attack.

About 50 people were killed and about 100 injured when the blasts went off in the southern town of Reyhanli, in across the border from Syria’s Idlib province, on May 11. One was at the community’s city hall and the other in front of a post office.

The protest Saturday began relatively peacefully but descended into chaos as running street clashes broke out with police.

Protesters threw rocks and bottles at the police, who responded by firing tear gas canisters and high-pressure paintballs. Officers also brought out a water cannon.


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Women and children ran from the scene as thick clouds of tear gas spread through the streets at the heart of the confrontation.

cnn_storypgraph6″Police prevented the protesters from reaching the site of the blasts in the center of the town, which lies in Turkey’s southern Hatay province.

The police have not yet commented on the clashes, which quietened down after less than an hour.

The protest — which started with several thousand people but dwindled to a hard core of several hundred as trouble broke out — was intended to show support and solidarity for the people of Reyhanli in the wake of the deadly bombings.

Many people in the town are angry at the government’s response and say its decision to take in Syrian refugees fleeing the conflict in their country has made Turkey a target for attacks.

The crowd chanted calls for Erdogan and the government to resign.

One family of demonstrators was mourning the death of Ayten Calim, a 20-year-old secretary from Reyhanli who was killed in the bombings last Saturday.

Her brother, Halim Calim, said, “We are here to voice our pain.” He and another brother carried Turkish flags and a banner with Ayten’s photo on it that read, “We will not forget.”

Some have criticized Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan for traveling to the United States this week instead of coming to Reyhanli to show support.

Erdogan has held talks with U.S. President Barack Obama and other U.S. officials in Washington.

Turkish President Abdullah Gul visited Reyhanli Thursday, when he vowed that those responsible for the car bombs would be held accountable.

Celalettin Lekesiz, governor of Hatay province, said Saturday that security forces had detained 17 people so far in connection with the bomb attacks and are hunting for four others, the semi-official Anadolu news agency reported.

All 21 suspects are Turkish nationals, he said.

Lekesiz said the security forces now had detailed information about how the suspects allegedly acquired the explosives and staged the bomb attacks, the news agency reported.

Interior Minister Muammer Guler and other Turkish officials have accused a former Marxist terror group that they say maintains relations with Al Muhabarat, Syria’s intelligence services, according to Anadolu.

CNN’s Laura Smith-Spark contributed to this report


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Giant mechanical beasts stalk park

May 18th, 2013 No comments


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Les Machines de L'Ile, an amusement park in Nantes, France, is home to moving mechanical animals, including this 48-ton monster: The Great Elephant.“Les Machines de L’Ile”, an amusement park in Nantes, France, is home to moving mechanical animals, including this 48-ton monster: The Great Elephant.

The 12 meter-tall hydraulic mammal tramples his way around the park, carrying almost 50 passengers on its back -- and spraying unsuspecting visitors with water as he passes.The 12 meter-tall hydraulic mammal tramples his way around the park, carrying almost 50 passengers on its back — and spraying unsuspecting visitors with water as he passes.

The ecosystem of complex animatronic animals have emerged from the warehouses of Nantes' dilapidated shipyards, the visions of street theater creators Francois Delarozire and Pierre Orefice.The ecosystem of complex animatronic animals have emerged from the warehouses of Nantes’ dilapidated shipyards, the visions of street theater creators Francois Delarozière and Pierre Orefice.

Delarozire and Orefice lead a team of craftsmen and machinists who aim to draw in in tourists with their fantastical animals.Delarozière and Orefice lead a team of craftsmen and “machinists” who aim to draw in in tourists with their fantastical animals.

With Les Machines, the duo say they aimed to create an adventure park that would awe parents and children alike, by allowing visitors to interact with their gargantuan creations.With Les Machines, the duo say they aimed to create an adventure park that would awe parents and children alike, by allowing visitors to interact with their gargantuan creations.

In the newly opened Marine Worlds Carousel three levels of marine life -- including flying fish, a giant squid, and a manta ray -- circle the 25 meter-tall merry-go-round.In the newly opened Marine Worlds Carousel three levels of marine life — including flying fish, a giant squid, and a manta ray — circle the 25 meter-tall merry-go-round.

The undersea creations take inspiration from the area's maritime history, the park's location, enclosed by two branches of the Loire River, and the fact that Nantes is the birthplace of 19th century author Jules Verne, who wrote 20,000 Leagues under the Sea.The undersea creations take inspiration from the area’s maritime history, the park’s location, enclosed by two branches of the Loire River, and the fact that Nantes is the birthplace of 19th century author Jules Verne, who wrote “20,000 Leagues under the Sea.”


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Editor’s note: Art of Movement is CNN’s monthly show exploring the latest innovations in art, culture, science and technology.

(CNN) — A prehistoric roar drowns out the delighted squeals of children madly dashing out of the path of the giant creature plodding towards them.

They need not hurry. The fantastical 48-ton elephant with flapping leather ears and undulating wooden trunk takes his time as he huffs and puffs his way across the park.

Welcome to Les Machines de L’lle — a former shipping yard turned mechanical animal “dream factory,” in the industrial port city of Nantes, in northwest France.

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The once dilapidated warehouses lining the riverfront have been transformed into a type of psychedelic Santa’s workshop, with artists building everything from enormous flying herons to a carousel revolving with deep sea creatures.


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But these whimsical animals are more than simply elaborate children’s toys.

They’re moving works of art, available for the public to climb on board and experience a retro fantasyland that “blends the invented worlds of Jules Verne and the mechanical universe of Leonardo Di Vinci.”

Read: Snake arms and crystal legs push boundaries of art

“The animals are conceived to be ‘traveling machines’ instead of big thrills entrainment,” said its co-artistic director Francois Delaroziere.

“It’s the desire to conceive a city through a common imagination, in which the public becomes an actor.”

The remarkable amusement park is the brainchild of La Machine, a street theater company famous for such creations as the 15-meter spider that crawled through Liverpool, in Britain, as part of the city’s Capital of Culture celebrations in 2008.

In 2007, the $19 million Les Machine de L’lle opened in the hope of regenerating Nantes’ deserted dockyards, which had been in decay since closing in 1987.

Backed by the local Metropole, the 337-hectare site is now one of the largest urban projects in Europe.

Free to the public, anyone can wander around the workshops filled with artists hammering and carving their latest creations — though if you want to clamber on one of the marvelous animals, you’ll need to buy a ticket.

Vintage Verne

The 25-meter tall Marine Worlds Carousel is the park’s newest attraction, featuring 24 mechanical waves and three levels of rotating sea creatures — from slack-jawed lantern fish to wriggling squid.

The animals’ hand-carved vintage style has a charming Steampunk quality — a genre of science-fiction featuring steam-powered machinery.

The alluring aesthetic is all the more fitting, considering Nantes is also the birthplace of 19th century writer Jules Verne.

Indeed, the sea monsters of his famous novel “20,000 Leagues under the Sea” come alive in the glowing merry-go-round teetering on the water’s edge.

The 12-meter tall elephant — lumbering beneath an ornate balcony of waving passengers — is also reminiscent of Verne’s book “The Steam House,” featuring a group of colonialists living in a wheeled house pulled by a steam-powered elephant.

Making a move

The Great Elephant may amble across the park at a gentle three kilometers per hour, but inside he’s a hive of activity — propelled by a 450-horse power motor, 60 cylinders, 2,000-liters of oil, and a complex system of jacks, pulleys and gears.

A steel skeleton forms the base of the wooden body — replete with wrinkles carved beneath the blinking eyes.

Read: Thought-powered bionic arm ‘like something from space’

But the hydraulic beast isn’t quite left to roam free, with an on-board driver steering him across the park, spraying onlookers with water from his rippling trunk.

“Sketchbooks are a starting point in creative process,” says Delaroziere. “They offer ideas for the seizing, define the rules of the game, and provide a rich basis for builders to begin constructing their interpretations on.”

Real big things

The fantastical world of Jules Verne looms large at Les Machines de L’lle.

But there’s a distinct difference between the French author’s pioneering novels and the psychedelic Steampunk park of his birthplace.

As Delaroziere says: “Jules Verne’s creations remain imaginary. Whereas we built real machines.”


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