Wednesday, 23 July 2014

Mayor dies after wasp attack





  • Mayor dies of anaphylactic shock

  • She was attacked by approximately 15 wasps, spokeswoman says

  • She reportedly was not allergic to wasps




Lea este artículo en español


(CNN) -- The mayor of a community just outside Montreal died of anaphylactic shock Sunday after being attacked by wasps while on vacation.


Lucie Roussel, the mayor of La Prairie, was 51, according to a release issued by the city. Roussel had served as mayor since 2003. A lawyer by training, Roussel is survived by her two children, Constance, 20, and Antonin, 19.


Roussel was attacked by approximately 15 wasps, according to a spokeswoman for La Prairie, Chantal Charron. However, Charron said the mayor was not allergic to wasps.


Canadian broadcaster CTV spoke with Roussel's former colleague Reine Hebert, who spoke of the loss. "I'm thinking about her family. They lost their father a few years ago. You can't do that to the family. I mean it's so sad." Hebert continued, saying "It's sad for the people, it's sad for her two children, for the whole city."




Mayor Lucie Roussel.



Several politicians expressed their condolences online after word of Roussel's death became public, including the mayor of Montreal, Denis Coderre, who tweeted about the death, saying it was "very sad," and offered his condolences to her family and her two children.


Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.


Deadly giant hornets kill 42 people in China



Ex-Penn State coaches sue for $1M






Former Penn State football coach Joe Paterno died on January 22. He was 85. The legendary coach, seen here in 1988, was fired in November 2011 during his 46th season at the helm of the Nittany Lions program.Former Penn State football coach Joe Paterno died on January 22. He was 85. The legendary coach, seen here in 1988, was fired in November 2011 during his 46th season at the helm of the Nittany Lions program.

The statue of Paterno outside Beaver Stadium is among many vestiges of Paterno's years as head coach.The statue of Paterno outside Beaver Stadium is among many vestiges of Paterno's years as head coach.

Paterno sprints off the field with his team at halftime in a 1996 game.Paterno sprints off the field with his team at halftime in a 1996 game.


Paterno celebrates after winning the Fiesta Bowl against Texas in 1997. Paterno was diagnosed with a treatable form of lung cancer, his son announced in November.

Paterno celebrates after winning the Fiesta Bowl against Texas in 1997. Paterno was diagnosed with a treatable form of lung cancer, his son announced in November.

In October 2001, Paterno is honored before a game for having won the most games in Division 1-A. He continued to vie with Florida State's Bobby Bowden for the most all-time major college wins until Bowden retired in 2009.In October 2001, Paterno is honored before a game for having won the most games in Division 1-A. He continued to vie with Florida State's Bobby Bowden for the most all-time major college wins until Bowden retired in 2009.

Paterno and his Nittany Lions look on before facing Iowa at Beaver Stadium in State College, Pennsylvania, in October 2004.Paterno and his Nittany Lions look on before facing Iowa at Beaver Stadium in State College, Pennsylvania, in October 2004.

Paterno shakes hands with Lloyd Carr of Michigan before their game in 2005 in Ann Arbor, Michigan.Paterno shakes hands with Lloyd Carr of Michigan before their game in 2005 in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Paterno celebrates a triple-overtime Orange Bowl win over Florida State in Miami on January 3, 2006. Paterno has guided his teams to more bowl victories than any other college coach.Paterno celebrates a triple-overtime Orange Bowl win over Florida State in Miami on January 3, 2006. Paterno has guided his teams to more bowl victories than any other college coach.

Paterno speaks at a post-game press conference after winning the Outback Bowl on January 1, 2007, in Tampa, Florida.Paterno speaks at a post-game press conference after winning the Outback Bowl on January 1, 2007, in Tampa, Florida.

Paterno walks the field as his players warm up before their game against the Syracuse Orangemen at Beaver Stadium in September 2009 in Pennsylvania. The coach was fired in November amid the outcry over the handling of accusations against former defensive coordinator Jerry Sandusky.Paterno walks the field as his players warm up before their game against the Syracuse Orangemen at Beaver Stadium in September 2009 in Pennsylvania. The coach was fired in November amid the outcry over the handling of accusations against former defensive coordinator Jerry Sandusky.

Paterno gives direction to his players before playing the Crimson Tide in Alabama in 2010.Paterno gives direction to his players before playing the Crimson Tide in Alabama in 2010.

Paterno walks the sidelines in October 2009 in Evanston, Illinois. In December 2011, he was admitted to a hospital after fracturing his pelvis when he slipped and fell at his home in State College.Paterno walks the sidelines in October 2009 in Evanston, Illinois. In December 2011, he was admitted to a hospital after fracturing his pelvis when he slipped and fell at his home in State College.








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  • Jay Paterno and Bill Kenney say they were unfairly linked to the Sandusky scandal

  • Head coach Joe Paterno was fired amid the Sandusky child molestation scandal

  • The new head coach did not keep Jay Paterno and Kinney on his staff

  • Lawsuit: The plaintiffs "have been denied lucrative employment opportunities"




(CNN) -- A pair of former Penn State assistant football coaches, including the son of the late head football coach Joe Paterno, have filed a federal lawsuit seeking $1 million in damages from the university.


The suit claims that plaintiffs Jay Paterno and Bill Kenney were unfairly linked to the Jerry Sandusky child molestation scandal, which eventually led to the firing of Joe Paterno. Jay Paterno and Kenney were also dismissed from their coaching positions.





Wife: Jerry Sandusky is innocent




2013: John Ziegler vs. Sara Ganim




2013: Attorney: Sandusky claims 'disturbing'

"Penn State reacted in mid-January 2012 with rashness and without basis by prematurely releasing from Penn State's employment the majority of the Penn State football coaching staff, including the employment of (Jay) Paterno and Kenney," the complaint states.


After Joe Paterno's firing in November 2011, new head coach Bill O'Brien decided not to retain Jay Paterno and Kenney on his staff.


Since their dismissal in January 2012, the lawsuit claims, Jay Paterno and Kenney "have been denied lucrative employment opportunities based upon the false light and association by innuendo."


The two are seeking $1 million in damages "in compensation for their emotional distress, humiliation, loss of reputation and status in the community of their respective peers, and the loss of their ability to provide for themselves," the complaint states.


They also want Penn State "to issue a public statement confirming that neither of plaintiffs committed any wrongdoing or impropriety of any kind in connection with the crimes and misconduct of Sandusky, and/or Penn State's handling of Sandusky's crimes and misconduct in any way, shape or form."


Penn State issued a statement Tuesday saying "it is common practice for incoming head coaches to select their own coaching staff," according to PennLive.com.


Board to consider resuming Sandusky's pension


Wife: Penn State sex abuse scandal takes toll on Sandusky children



Fruit recall at Walmart, Costco





  • Costco, Trader Joe's, Kroger and Walmart are notifying consumers about fruit recall

  • Wawona Packing Co. voluntarily recalls peaches, nectarines, plums and pluots

  • Internal company testing revealed the fruit may be contaminated with listeria

  • The fruits were packed in California warehouses between June 1 and July 12




(CNN) -- If you've picked up fruit at Costco, Trader Joe's, Kroger or Walmart stores recently, this may affect you.


Wawona Packing Co. is voluntarily recalling peaches, nectarines, plums and pluots that were packed at its Cutler, California, warehouses between June 1 and July 12. Wawona believes the products may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.


Costco, Trader Joe's, Kroger and Walmart, which also operates Sam's Club stores, have all posted notices about the fruit recall on their websites. So have grocery chains Ralphs and Food 4 Less. The recall is nationwide, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.


Consumers should look for a sticker on their fruit that says "SWEET 2 EAT," according to the recall warnings.


Internal testing at Wawona revealed the potential listeria contamination, the company says. Listeria was found on on two nectarines and one peach. It is not yet clear how they became contaminated. The facility was shut down and sanitized, and subsequent tests have been negative for the bacteria.


"We are aware of no illnesses related to the consumption of these products," Wawona President Brent Smittcamp said in a statement. "By taking the precautionary step of recalling product, we will minimize even the slightest risk to public health, and that is our priority."


How to protect yourself from food poisoning


Trader Joe's has urged customers not to eat any of these stone fruits -- meaning fruits with large pits -- and to return them to a nearby store for a full refund.


In addition, Wegmans has recalled several of its baked goods that contain fruit from Wawona Packing Co. This includes cakes, pies, tarts and other pastries. For a full list, see FDA.gov.


Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause listeriosis. The most common symptoms of listeriosis are gastrointestinal issues (such as diarrhea), fever and muscle aches. Pregnant women, infants, older adults and people with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk for a more serious infection, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.


If you have already eaten one of the recalled products and begin to feel ill, see your doctor and tell him or her about the recall.


"Your doctor will make a diagnosis and should report any positive test findings for Listeria monocytogenes to public health authorities, who will then report it to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention," Wawona states in an FAQ about the recall.


The CDC estimates about 1,600 illnesses and 260 deaths are caused by listeriosis each year in the United States. Overall, outbreaks have been on the decline since 2001, but the largest in U.S. history occurred in 2011. Cantaloupes from a farm in Colorado sickened 147 people and killed nearly three dozen. The farmers responsible recently were sentenced to five years' probation, including six months of in-home detention.


1 dead, 7 sickened by listeria linked to cheese


22,000 pounds of meat recalled


California firm recalls chicken over salmonella fears



Marrakech: 10 best attractions






Marrakech's warren of side streets and the sun-baked countryside beyond the city are home to numerous hidden attractions. This lamp bazaar can be found in the old medina.Marrakech's warren of side streets and the sun-baked countryside beyond the city are home to numerous hidden attractions. This lamp bazaar can be found in the old medina.

The medina is a great place for wandering, getting lost and even picking up a bargain -- shoppers need good haggling skills.The medina is a great place for wandering, getting lost and even picking up a bargain -- shoppers need good haggling skills.

Traditional medicine shops can still be found in the old medina, crammed with powders and potions for curing all manner of ailments.Traditional medicine shops can still be found in the old medina, crammed with powders and potions for curing all manner of ailments.

It may be in ruins, but it's still possible to get a sense of the former glory of the sprawling 16th-century El Badi Palace. Once the home of a sultan, it has a labyrinth, subterranean rooms and museum.It may be in ruins, but it's still possible to get a sense of the former glory of the sprawling 16th-century El Badi Palace. Once the home of a sultan, it has a labyrinth, subterranean rooms and museum.

The five-star Mamounia Palace hotel has been a Marrakech institution for the best part of a century, receiving famous guests such as Winston Churchill and Charlie Chaplin.The five-star Mamounia Palace hotel has been a Marrakech institution for the best part of a century, receiving famous guests such as Winston Churchill and Charlie Chaplin.

Created by French artist Jacques Majorelle, the Jardin Majorelle was later owned by French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent.Created by French artist Jacques Majorelle, the Jardin Majorelle was later owned by French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent.

Another luxury hotel, this one on the way from Marrakech to the Atlas Mountains, the Namaskar is an oasis-style spa retreat that regularly tops best-in-Africa lists.Another luxury hotel, this one on the way from Marrakech to the Atlas Mountains, the Namaskar is an oasis-style spa retreat that regularly tops best-in-Africa lists.

Marrakech is a great base for day trips to surrounding countryside. The valley of Ourika is a popular escape to see Berber villages surrounded by waterfalls and rivers.Marrakech is a great base for day trips to surrounding countryside. The valley of Ourika is a popular escape to see Berber villages surrounded by waterfalls and rivers.

The Atlas Mountain village of Armed is the last stop before Toubkal, Morocco's highest mountain, the peak of which affords views over the Sahara.The Atlas Mountain village of Armed is the last stop before Toubkal, Morocco's highest mountain, the peak of which affords views over the Sahara.

The clear skies over Marrakech make it an ideal spot for hot air ballooning. The views over countryside, mountains and desert are said to be the best in Morocco.The clear skies over Marrakech make it an ideal spot for hot air ballooning. The views over countryside, mountains and desert are said to be the best in Morocco.









  • Getting lost in the narrow streets of Marrakech's old medina is a great way to find antiques and oddities

  • The Jardin Majorelle was created by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later owned by Yves Saint Laurent

  • Outside Marrakech, travelers can take a hot air balloon trip, explore the Atlas Mountains or ride a zip wire




Editor's note: This piece, and several others on Marrakech, complement the CNNGo TV series. This month's show features a lesson in haggling in the medina old town and samples delicious local pancakes. It meets a homegrown rap artist and showcases the ancient city's contemporary culture before embarking on a hot air balloon ride over the beautiful nearby countryside: www.cnn.com/cnngo


(CNN) -- While many visits to Marrakech revolve around the imposing Koutoubia mosque or Jemaa el Fna, the bustling central square filled with snake charmers and storytellers, there's plenty to do beyond these landmarks.


For those willing to delve deep into the narrow streets around the square or into the desert and mountains outside the city, Marrakech rewards with stunning scenery, unforgettable flavors and luxurious indulgences.


Here are some of the city's highlights.


1. Getting lost in the backstreets


Exploring the old medina can be pleasurable and expensive in equal measures thanks to the small boutiques selling almost everything.


Among classic local souvenirs are djellaba robes, spices, babouches (Moroccan slippers), old carpets and colorful ceramics.


Bargaining is part of the attraction here.


Taking time over a purchase will not only save money but generally prompt an enjoyable discussion with the vendor.


Recommended: La Porte d'Or -- an ancient two-level bazaar rammed with rugs and antiques.


La Porte d'Or 115 Souk Semmarine, Marrakech; +212 24445454


MORE: Snake charmers and storytellers: Marrakech's magical medieval heart


2. Wandering through the Jardin Majorelle


Here, the simple joy of a peaceful garden meets the complicated world of high couture.


This 12-acre botanical creation was bequeathed to Marrakech by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later saved from development by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, who bought it in the 1980s and, following his death, had his ashes scattered among its plants.


The garden, which blends Moorish and art deco features, is filled with rare flowers. A startling electric blue villa looks down upon the scene.


Jardin Majorelle , Rue Yves Saint Laurent, Marrakech; +212 5243-01894




Marrakech\'s answer to the mall.

Marrakech's answer to the mall.



3. Eating a sheep's head


There are plenty of places to eat Moroccan food in Marrakech.


Cooked snails, tajines, couscous and sheep heads -- there are different levels of exoticism to match the adventurousness of the diner.


Tanjia is a staple here. It's a meat dish cooked for six or more hours in a ceramic pot.


It's not commonly enjoyed by tourists but has such a terrific reputation among Moroccans that some come to Marrakech with the sole purpose of eating it.


Recommended: Dar Rhizlane Bejgueni, Jamaa el Fna square. This 40-year-old restaurant is a Marrakech institution. It's open until 2 a.m. and is famous for its sandwiches.


Dar Rhizlane Bejgueni, Jamaa el Fna square, Marrakech


MORE: CNNGo in Marrakech: Souks and Moroccan pancakes


4. Getting pummeled by a stranger


Steaming in a traditional Hammam or public bath is an important part of Moroccan life and culture.


Being scrubbed by a perfect stranger may not sound like everyone's idea of relaxation, but there's no better way to escape the buzzing Medina and revitalize weary skin and muscles.


Recommended: Les bains de Marrakech, a luxury spa close to the medina that offers individual massage rooms.


Les Bains de Marrakech , 2 Derb Sedra, Bab Agnaou, Kasbah, Marrakech; +212 5 24 38 14 28


5. Visiting or staying in a palace


El Badi Palace: It may be in ruins, but it's still possible to get an idea of the former glory of this sprawling 16th-century sultan's home.


There are subterranean rooms and a labyrinth to explore, plus a museum of objects recovered from an old Minbar (pulpit) at the Koutoubia mosque.


Mamounia Palace: This five-star hotel has been a Marrakech institution for the best part of a century, receiving famous guests such as Winston Churchill and Charlie Chaplin.




Green space: Jardin Majorelle.

Green space: Jardin Majorelle.



The Mamounia still attracts celebrities. Russian President Vladimir Putin's daughter was reportedly married here in 2013.


Namaskar Palace: Another luxury hotel, this one on the way from Marrakech to the Atlas Mountains.


Stylish with traditional influences, the oasis-style spa retreat regularly tops best-in-Africa lists.


El Badi Palace : Ksibat Nhass, Marrakech; +212 661 350878


Mamounia Palace , Arset el Maach, Marrakech; +212 5243 88600


Namaskar Palace , Route de Bab Atlas, 88/69, Province Syba, Marrakech; + 212 5 24 29 98 00


6. Relaxing in a riad


Whether for drinking tea or staying the night, riads are a great part of the Marrakech experience.


These traditional Moroccan houses built around a central garden or courtyard are as much a part of the city as the snake charmers of the main square -- although many have had a modern makeover.


Regardless of whether they've been kitted out with the latest fixtures or remain faithful to their old fashioned Moroccan decor, they all seem to evoke the myths of "One Thousand and One Nights."


Recommended: El fenn, a maze-like, 22-room luxury boutique hotel based around three central courtyards.


El Fenn , Derb Moullay Abdullah Ben Hezzian, Bab el Ksour Medina, Marrakech; +212 524 44 1210


READ: Photo secrets of Marrakech: How to shoot the Red City


7. Checking out the Atlas Mountains


One of Marrakech's key attractions is that it lies within easy reach of the Atlas Mountains, meaning that cool retreats from the heat and dust of the city are close at hand.


The town of Lalla Takerkoust, 43 kilometers (27 miles) to the southwest, is chiefly known for its nearby dam and lake and is a great place for quad biking, camel riding or simply admiring view of the peaks.




Slow food: A Marrakech snail vendor.

Slow food: A Marrakech snail vendor.



The valley of Ourika, in the Atlas foothills 60 kilometers to the south of Marrakech, is a popular escape to see Berber villages surrounded by waterfalls and rivers.


The village of Armed, 64 kilometers due south, is the last stop before Toubkal, Morocco's highest mountain, the peak of which affords views over the Sahara.


It's a great base for hiking or for simply breathing pure air, contemplating nature or enjoying a lunch on the terrace at the Roches Hotel (+212 667 64 49 15)


8. Grabbing a bargain in Bab El Khemis


It's off the main tourist trail, but Bab el Khemis is worth a visit.


The souk here is open every day, but on Thursdays ("Khemis" translates as "Thursday") it becomes a truly Moroccan experience.


This is when it transforms into a crowded flea market selling secondhand goods and treasures such as vintage carpets, doors and more than a few things that customers probably don't know exist until they stumble across them here.


9. Hot air ballooning


When people visit the city and talk of getting high, it doesn't necessarily mean they're hunting for the Crosby, Stills and Nash "Marrakech Express" vibe of the 1960s hippie trail.


Over the past 20 years, the city has emerged as a destination for balloon trips -- clear Moroccan skies that rarely see clouds or rain are a huge plus.


Taking in what is undoubtedly the best view of the Atlas Mountains doesn't come cheap, but few deny it's money well spent.


Recommended: Ciel d'Afrique, an organzied and professional operation with decades of ballooning experience.


Ciel d'Afrique ; +212 524 43 28 43


10. Thrill seeking


A 30-minute drive south of Marrakech leads to Terres d'Amanar, a 173-acre adult playground filled with adrenaline-boosting outdoor activities.


For those with no fear of heights there are climbing routes, high wires and zip lines, while on the ground there's horse and camel riding.


Berber bread making courses are also offered.


Terres d'Amanar ; +212 524 438 103


Ali Berrada is a Moroccan photographer, writer and director.



China flight disruptions to come


Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport is one of the 12 airports experiencing severe flight cancellations and delays.


Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport is one of the 12 airports experiencing severe flight cancellations and delays.






  • Military exercises thought to be behind China flight cancellations and delays for next three weeks

  • Domestic travelers switching to train travel, leading to overcrowded trains

  • 12 airports in China to be affected, including both Shanghai airports




(CNN) -- For the next three weeks at least, flying to and within China is going to be a stressful affair, for even the hardiest of travelers.


Hundreds of flights were canceled or delayed Monday and China's civil aviation regulator warned that more flights in 12 airports will be affected over the coming three weeks.


The worst affected airports so far have been Shanghai's two airports -- Pudong and Hongqiao -- two of the country's busiest airline hubs. Another 120 flights were delayed for more than two hours.


Domestic travelers have been switching to high-speed trains (Chinese only) after hearing of the widespread delays, leading to severe overcrowding on main rail routes some have likened to the Chinese New Year migration.


Officials and airlines have shed little light on the reasons for the disruptions but local media have suggested the cause is due to military exercises.


Speculation is rife on social media.


"Perhaps I'm ill-informed but I've never heard of any other countries' military exercises affecting civil airlines on such a large scale," posted user @luoyu on Weibo, China's version of Twitter.


"I've also never seen such vast adjustments affecting a quarter of civil airlines' flights in China's history. Whatever is causing the wide-scale delays, it's making history."


What's going on?


Local officials cited "air traffic restrictions" while Shanghai-based China Eastern Airlines said "the airspace was occupied," according to the Shanghai Daily newspaper.


"Among situations for air traffic restrictions being imposed are when military maneuvers are taking place," the newspaper added.


CCTV, the state television channel, shared on its Weibo account -- China's equivalent of Twitter -- a widely circulated memo, originally published on a Chinese flight crew blog, that said the civil aviation authority has requested airlines to reduce flights by 25% in eastern China.


Hundreds of flights to and from eastern China were canceled or delayed Monday, with 200 flights canceled at Pudong and Hongqiao. Flights departing from other eastern Chinese cities' airports, including Nanjing and Hangzhou, were also affected.


MORE: And the world's best airline 2014 is...


Where to expect delays


"The following 12 airports will experience massive delays for 26 days! Fliers, bring snacks and water!" the CCTV post said.


"From July 20 to August 15, operations of these airports -- including Shanghai Hongqiao, Shanghai Pudong, Nanjing, Hangzhou, Hefei, Jinan, Wuxi, Ningbo, Qingdao, Lianyungang, Zhengzhou and Wuhan -- will be affected by high-frequency exercises conducted by another party. All airlines are requested to reduce flights by 25% and fliers are expected to face delays."


Officials at the Civil Aviation Administration of China declined to comment when approached by CNN.


Past delays


This is the second large-scale air traffic disruption in China in the last two weeks.


More than 100 flights were canceled or delayed on July 14 in Shanghai.


In December 2006, Shanghai Pudong International Airport closed and hundreds of flights were canceled or delayed due to military exercises.


Two Internet users have been held by police for allegedly fabricating and circulating "anti-corruption-related" claims, according to Hong Kong newspaper South China Morning Post.


The Internet users claimed the disruption was due to the arrest of a high-ranking government official trying to flee the country.


Another 37 people were reprimanded in the crackdown against Internet "rumor mongers," according to SCMP.


China's air traffic woes continue


Lengthy flight delays are common in China.


The country's largest airports, serving the mega-cities of Shanghai and Beijing, suffer some of the worst flight delays in the world.


In June 2013, Beijing's Capital International Airport hit the bottom of a list of the world's most delayed airports, according to U.S.-based air travel information service FlightStats.


Just 18.3% of flights from the airport left on time during that month and around 42% of flights suffered delays of 45 minutes or longer.


Second worst on the list was Shanghai's Hongqiao, where just 24% of flights departed on time.


Overly cautious air traffic control and airspace restrictions for civilian aircraft are two of the reasons for these delays, but flights are also affected by thick smog and once, an unidentified flying object (UFO).


MORE: Delayed! Why flying in China is hard


Maggie Hiufu Wong, Steven Jiang, Frances Cha and Daojun Wu contributed to this report.