COP21, Kobe Bryant, Cyber Monday

  Climate change on the Agenda The hashtag #COP21 started trending over the weekend ahead of the United Nations’ conference on climate change. What is COP21? It stands for the 21st Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. World leaders like U.S. President Barack Obama and Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke about this year’s conference as a new beginning. Xi called the summit “a new starting point.” Obama said, “Our generation may not even live to see the full realization of what we do here.” But it’s a tweet from outer space that has received all the attention. American astronaut Scott Kelly wrote, “From space, we are privileged to see the beauty of Earth, but also our impact on its environment.”  The tweet was liked over 4,000 times in seven hours. Kobe Bryant makes retirement plans Basketball star Kobe Bryant has been grabbing headlines his entire career. Bryant was a teenager when he entered the NBA draft straight out of high school. He won five NBA titles with the Los Angeles Lakers. He even scored 81 points in one game in 2006 – the second-highest single-game total ever. On Sunday night, Bryant announced he would retire at the end of this season. Bryant made the announcement with a poem on the website The Players’ Tribune. Bryant wrote, “This season is all I have left to give. My heart can take the pounding. My mind can handle the grind. But my body knows it’s time to say goodbye.” By Monday morning in the U.S., the word “Kobe” was the subject of over one million tweets. Bryant will retire after 20 seasons in the league. He missed almost all of the last two seasons due to major injuries. Bryant will finish his career with the third-most career points in NBA history. Cyber Monday after Black Friday This is the time of year retail businesses in the U.S. look to start making money. Businesses offer customers discounts and incentives to make them come to stores and shop. The day after Thanksgiving is called “Black Friday.” It refers to the first time all year businesses are “in the black” or making profit. With more businesses selling their goods online, the Monday after Thanksgiving has the name “Cyber Monday.” There were over two million Google searches with the term “Cyber Monday” on Sunday alone for discounts on computers, clothes and shoes. Perhaps some businesses hyped the big day too much. Target’s website could not handle the traffic and had to slow down. Some users got the message “So sorry, but high traffic’s causing delays.” One Twitter user was a little disappointed that he could not access the sales on Target’s website.   The website CNBC.com said PayPal had trouble keeping up with demand, too. I’m Jonathan Evans.   Dan Friedell wrote this story for Learning English. Hai Do was the editor. Does your country have a good plan for climate change? Do you think we can make a difference today for future generations? We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section or on our Facebook page. ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   grab – v. to get the attention or interest of (someone or something) hype – v. to talk or write about (something or someone) in a way that is intended to make people excited or interested score – v. to get points, goals, runs, etc., in a game or contest draft – v. a system by which professional sports teams choose players from college or high school teams — usually singular

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Colorado Shootings Restart Gun Debate

Another shooting incident – this time in Colorado -- has brought attention to the debate about gun violence in the United States. “Enough is enough,” said President Barack Obama on Saturday. A police officer and two civilians were killed Friday during a five-hour shooting spree in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Nine other victims were wounded. The shooting happened at a Planned Parenthood healthcare facility. The man accused in the shooting, Robert Lewis Dear, was due in court Monday. Dear’s motive for the attack is unknown, but he reportedly talked about abortion during the shooting. Planned Parenthood is a national provider of health and family planning services. It tests for sexually transmitted diseases and offers health consultations. Some of its health clinics provide services to end pregnancies. Abortion has been legal in the United States since 1973. But it is very controversial. Fifty-five percent of American adults say abortions should be legal in all or most cases, compared with 40 percent who say it should be illegal all or most of the time, according to a February 2013 Pew Research poll. The Justice Department said the case may qualify as a domestic terrorism crime. Gun violence is a controversial topic in the U.S. The U.S. Constitution allows for the “right to bear arms.” But modern understanding of the Second Amendment to the Constitution has been heated. The day after the Colorado shooting, the University of Chicago received an online threat of violence. The university canceled classes Monday because of the threat of gun violence. The school also increased police and security patrols. It ordered students in college housing to stay inside Monday. The university is five blocks from President Obama’s Chicago home. In December 2012, a heavily armed young man shot and killed 26 people at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. Six were adults, but 20 were children in Grade 1. The shooter killed himself when police arrived. Since then, 74 other school shootings have occurred, said politifact.com. After Sandy Hook, public opinion shifted toward support for gun control, according to a Pew Research Center poll in 2013. Fifty percent of those polled said gun control was the most important issue. Before the Sandy Hook shooting, 40 percent said gun control was the most important issue, according to a Gallup poll. I’m Jim Tedder. Jim Dresbach adapted this story for Learning English. Kathleen Struck was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section or visit our Facebook page. ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   nervous – adj. often or easily becoming worried and afraid about what might happen online – adj. done over the Internet patrol – n. a group of people or vehicles that go through an area to make sure that it is safe

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Can We Reduce HIV Infections to Zero?

Driving Safer, Easier With New Electronics for Cars

Improvements in electronics for autos are making cars safer and smarter. Some new car models are fashionable. Others can go a long way on only a little gas. But all are taking advantage of technology that is making driving safer and easier. The new Ford Escape has technology that helps the car avoid crashes. A new cruise control system changes the car’s speed to keep a safe distance from other cars on the road. It works by using sensors that measure the Escape’s distance from other vehicles. Drivers can connect to the Ford Escape’s electronic system through the dashboard or with their smart phones. The phone can start and track their car from anywhere. Mark Schirmer is a product representative at Ford. "Where I'm from, in Michigan, if it's a cold morning, I can have it start up right before I'm scheduled to leave to go to the airport or go to work. “You can find your car, or if one of your family members, a kid, borrowed the car, it will show you exactly where it is." Other companies are also hard at work developing technology to make driving safer. The Heedful Audio Alert System, or HAAS, warns drivers when emergency vehicles are near. CEO Cory Hohs said a near-crash with a Chicago fire truck inspired the product. "It scared me enough that I started looking for a product that would alert me when they're coming." Hohs said crashes with emergency vehicles are a major problem. The device has a sensor that detects the sound of an emergency vehicle siren. The device then sends a warning to the driver’s phone or other connected device when an emergency vehicle is in the area. A company called Sober Steering has developed a device to stop drunken drivers. The device can detect alcohol in the skin. If the driver’s alcohol level is too high, it shuts down the vehicle. Sober Steering sells the device to companies that operate large fleets of vehicles, like trucking and bus companies. Catherine Carroll is the Chief Operating Officer of Sober Steering. "If I'm drinking and I have levels above a preset limit, it immobilizes the vehicle, so you can't move the vehicle that you're driving." Just as connected technology is changing life at home and at work, it is also changing life on the road. And increasingly for cars, connected technology has become as important as performance and styling.   I’m Adam Brock.   Mike O’Sullivan reported this story for VOA from Los Angeles. Adam Brock adapted it for Learning English. Kathleen Struck edited the story. Would you like your car to have these abilities? Leave a comment or post on our Facebook page. ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   fashionable - adj. currently popular cruise control – n. an electronic device in a motor vehicle that can be switched on to maintain a selected constant speed without the use of the accelerator sensor – n. a device that detects or senses heat, light, sound, motion, etc., and then reacts to it in a particular way dashboard – n. the part of the inside of a car, truck, etc., that is below the windshield and that has the controls on it inspire – v. to make (someone) want to do something : to give (someone) an idea about what to do or create detect – v. to discover or notice the presence of (something that is hidden or hard to see, hear, taste, etc.) drunk – adj. having drunk so much alcohol that normal actions (such as talking, thinking, and moving) become difficult to do fleet – n. a group of vehicles that move or work together or that are controlled or owned by one company immobilize – v. to keep (something or someone) from moving or working : to make (something or someone) immobile

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World Leaders Seek Climate Change Agreement

Representatives from more than 150 countries are meeting in Paris to try to reach an agreement on climate change. The world leaders are debating ways to reduce emissions from fossil fuels -- like oil and gasoline -- to slow the rise of the Earth’s temperature. The U.N. weather agency says the average global temperature will rise by 1 degree Celsius. The U.N. wants to keep the global temperature from rising by more than 2 degrees Celsius. The leaders will be joined by 40,000 delegates and organizers from 130 non-governmental organizations. Unlike earlier U.N. climate meetings, the world leaders will arrive first. They will create a framework for negotiators to try to reach an agreement. On Monday, U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told the world leaders that the meeting “must mark a decisive turning point.” He told them they have "the power to secure the well-being of this and succeeding generations.” He said, “you are here today to write the script for a new future, a future of hope and promise of increased prosperity, security and dignity for all. We need the world to know that we are headed to a low-emissions, climate-resilient future and there is no going back.” Before the climate change meeting in Paris began, President Barack Obama met with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Obama said the two countries agree on what is needed to slow global warming. He said that includes lowering carbon emissions and giving money to developing nations to help them make changes. He said, “As the two largest economies in the world and the two largest carbon emitters, we have both determined that it is our responsibility to take action, and since our historic joint announcement of our post-2020 climate targets in Beijing last year, more than 180 countries have followed in announcing their own targets. So our leadership on this issue has been absolutely vital.” The U.S. has promised to reduce emissions up to 28 percent by 2025. China has said its emissions will not increase after about 2030. As the meeting begins, Beijing and other parts of China have had some of the worst air pollution conditions of the year. The air quality reached an orange-level alert. That is the second highest alert level for air pollution. The U.S., China and India produce about half of the world’s emissions of carbon dioxide, a gas that keeps heat in the atmosphere. Scientists said carbon dioxide is a leading cause of global warming. French President Francois Hollande says it will not be easy for the world leaders to reach an agreement. He says he is not sure if any agreement can be enforced. He is also worried about whether small countries have enough money to put in place measures to reduce their emissions. And he is not sure countries can be monitored to ensure they are meeting their promises to limit emissions. This year, 183 countries have released long-term plans to deal with climate change. But experts believe the negotiations at the Paris meeting and other international meetings over the next two weeks will be difficult. In 2009 in Copenhagen, rich and developing countries differed on how to limit global warming. They failed to reach an agreement. On Sunday, hundreds of thousands of protesters throughout the world called for global environmental controls. In Paris, activists gathered during a time of strict security following the Islamic State terrorist attacks last month that killed 130 people. Peaceful protests became violent. Police fired tear gas at some demonstrators. More than 200 protestors were detained. Concerts, demonstrations and a People’s Climate March were planned. Many people were expected to gather at them. But they were cancelled after the terrorist attacks. France says about 2,800 police officers and soldiers are guarding the conference. It said 6,300 other security forces will be deployed in Paris. French Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve said almost 1,000 people believed to be threats to security have been refused entry into France. I’m Mario Ritter.    Aru Pande reported this story from Paris; Chris Hannas and VOA Science and Environment Correspondent Rosanne Skirble contributed reporting from Washington. Christopher Jones-Cruise adapted their reporting into VOA Learning English. Kathleen Struck was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section or on our Facebook page. ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   fossil fuel – n. a fuel such as coal, oil, or natural gas made from dead plants or animals framework – n. the basic structure of something decisive – adj. able to make choices quickly and confidently turning point – n. able to make choices quickly and confidently well-being – n. the state of being happy, healthy, or successful succeeding – adj. coming after something; coming or happening at a later time script – n. a plan for what is going to be done or said in a particular situation headed – v. to go in a specified direction or toward a specified place emissions – n. something sent out or given off resilient – adj. able to become strong, healthy, or successful again after a challenge vital – adj. extremely important monitor – v. to watch, observe, listen to or check over time tear gas – n. a gas that stings the eyes and makes them tear; used especially by the police or military to separate large groups of people

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US Warns of 'Imminent' Attack in Kabul

Officials say they have “credible reports of an imminent attack” on American assets in the Afghan capital Kabul. The American Embassy released an emergency message on Monday. The message said American citizens should be very careful if traveling in the city. It said the embassy did not have “further details regarding the targets, timing or method of the planned attack.” And it again warned U.S. citizens not to travel to Afghanistan. It said “the security situation in Afghanistan is extremely unstable, and the threat to all U.S. citizens in Afghanistan remains critical. U.S. citizens currently visiting or residing in Afghanistan may wish to consider departing.” Because of increasing insecurity in Kabul, the embassy no longer lets its workers travel by vehicle. They must use helicopters instead. Workers at embassies of other countries and international aid groups have put similar policies in place. They want to decrease their vulnerability to attacks as they travel among secure parts of the city. On Saturday morning, a senior Afghan election official survived a suicide bombing against his vehicle in Kabul that killed his driver and wounded a guard. The reason for the attack is not known. But Taliban militants have increased their attacks on Afghan security forces and government officials. The attacks are believed to be part of the Taliban’s violent anti-government campaign across the country. The embassy releases emergency warnings often. But this warning was released as the leaders of Afghanistan and Pakistan were expected to meet in Paris at a United Nations gathering on climate change. If the meeting between Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani takes place, it could be an important first step in peace talks with the Taliban. Pakistan is working with leaders of the group and Afghan government officials to reach an agreement to end the fighting in Afghanistan.  I’m Jonathan Evans.  Correspondent Ayaz Gul reported this story from Islamabad. Christopher Jones-Cruise adapted it into VOA Learning English. Kathleen Struck was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page. ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   assets -- n. people and facilities, in this case credible – adj. able to be believed; reasonable to trust or believe imminent – adj. happening very soon facilities – n. something (such as a building or large piece of equipment) that is built for a specific purpose vulnerable – adj. open to attack, harm or damage secure – adj. protected from danger or harm; guarded so that no one can enter or leave without approval

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VOA English Newscast 1600 UTC: November 30, 2015

  From Washington, this is VOA News.      I’m Joe Palka reporting. President Barack Obama speaks to UN Climate Summit. President Obama urged world leaders to "rise to this moment" Monday, telling them their progress at a U.N. climate summit in Paris will be measured by "the suffering that is averted and a planet that is preserved." He called on the delegations to agree to a system that is transparent and gives them confidence everyone else is meeting their commitments. “Here in Paris, let’s secure an agreement that builds on ambition, where progress paves the way for regularly updated targets – targets that are not set for each of us us, but by each of us, taking into account the differences that each nation is facing.” And what, specifically, is at stake for the African nations at the Summit?  Anita Powell reports from Johannesburg: For months, African negotiators have repeated a sort of mantra as they prepared for climate change talks in Paris: worldwide two-degree temperature rise limit, binding agreement, financial help from developed nations. Bongani Majola, a spokesman for (South African) President Jacob Zuma, explained from Paris. “We are expecting that there will be some conclusion of the negotiations that started in Durban in 2011 towards a negotiated, legally-binding agreement … will be bound by an agreement.” But as negotiators gather in Paris this week, the most important thing, a solution, is very much up in the air. Anita Powell, VOA News, Johannesburg. The leaders are working to agree on binding measures to keep global temperatures from rising more than two degrees Celsius above pre-Industrial Revolution levels. This is VOA News. ______________________________________________________________ Words in This Newscast   UN – adj. short for United Nations summit – n. a conference or meeting moment – n. a short period of time; the present time averted – v. to prevent from happening; to avoid preserved – v. to keep from harm or loss transparent – adj. easy to see through; honest and open confidence – n. a feeling that you can do something well commitment(s) – n. promise ambition – n. a goal, aim or desire to be successful regularly – adj. at the same time; very often updated – v. to improve or change by adding the latest information take into account – idiom. to pay attention to; to consider specifically – n. special; clearly presented or stated at stake – phrase. at risk; at issue mantra – n. a word or saying that is repeated when someone prays binding – adj. forcing or requiring someone to do something conclusion – n. ending up in the air – expression. to be under consideration global – adj. involving the world   We want to hear from you. Write to us in the comments section.

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Critics: Peanut Butter With Caffeine Unfit for Kids

  Americans love peanut butter. The average child will eat 1,500 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches before he or she graduates high school, according to the U.S.-based National Peanut Board. But there is a dispute over a new peanut butter. It is called S-T-E-E-M, or STEEM Peanut Butter. This peanut butter adds a new ingredient: caffeine. Caffeine is a stimulant that helps people become more awake or energetic. Coffee is a popular morning drink because it has caffeine and gives people energy in the morning. But medical experts worry about adults who rely too heavily on caffeine. Even small amounts of caffeine can be dangerous to children, says the American Academy of Pediatrics. United States Senator Charles Schumer says he worries about the effects on children from a product never before associated with caffeine.   “To think that peanut butter, one of the snacks most closely associated with children, might have to be stored in the medicine cabinet as opposed to the kitchen cabinet should serve as a jolt to the FDA,” said Schumer, a New York Democrat. Schumer wants the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to investigate. He noted that earlier the FDA blocked plans for a caffeinated chewing gum. STEEM, the manufacturer, said it is selling the caffeinated peanut butter “all over the world.” The manufacturer says two tablespoons has 150 mg of caffeine. A 12-ounce regular coffee has 250 mg. The product provides caffeine in an easily digestible way, the manufacturer says. “Caffeinated foods have been sold in U.S. stores for well over a decade and are in no way a new idea,” the company said, in a statement to VOA. The company says customers tell them they want to eat the caffeinated peanut butter so they don’t have to drink as much coffee or energy drinks. The company says it is not marketing the peanut butter for children. But Schumer is not persuaded. Peanut butter has been a favorite of children for generations, he said. Schumer continued: “Parents across the country shouldn’t have to worry about a scenario in which their child might unknowingly bite into a peanut butter and jelly sandwich that contains more caffeine than two cups of coffee.” The American Academy of Pediatrics says caffeine in small amounts can help the physical performance of adults. But the academy urges parents not to allow children to take even small amounts of caffeine. It warns of caffeine’s possible negative impact on a child’s heart and brain development. The biggest sales of peanut butter, by far, are in the United States and Canada. In Europe, the average person ate only about one tablespoon per year per person in 2012, according to the Peanut Council. The largest U.S. exports of peanut butter go to Canada, Germany, Mexico and Nigeria. Peanut butter is a food paste made from roasted peanuts. Canadian Marcellus Gilmore Edson won the first patent for peanut butter in 1884. I'm Anna Matteo.   Bruce Alpert reported this story for VOA Learning English. Kathleen Struck was the editor. We want to hear from you. Tell us if you ever tried peanut butter and whether you liked it or not. Share your thoughts in the Comments section or our Facebook Page.  _____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   sandwiches -- n. two pieces of bread with something (such as meat, peanut butter, etc.) between them. ingredient – n.  one of the things that are used to make a food, product, etc. caffeine – n.  a substance that is found especially in coffee and tea and that makes you feel more awake stimulant – n.  something that makes you more active or gives you more energy pediatrics – n.  a branch of medicine that deals with the development, care, and diseases of babies and children scenario – n.  a description of what could possibly happen jolt – n. to cause (something or someone) to move in a quick and sudden way digestible – adj.  easy to eat and digest

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Freedom Threatens New York's White Deer

In the 1940s, the U.S. Army fenced 40 kilometers of wilderness in Central New York and turned it into a weapons depot. By chance, the fencing enclosed a community of rare white deer and protected them from hunters and predators for more than 60 years. The refuge is near Seneca Lake, a resort area. White deer are rare in most places around the world because they are easy to spot against green or brown forest backgrounds. It makes them a good target for hunters and animal predators like coyotes and wolves. The white deer lived undisturbed in their enclosure. Their numbers increased as the years passed. The white deer passed along their unique genes to their offspring and thrived. There are about 200 white deer and 600 brown deer on the military base. The storage area for military weapons stayed active until 2000. The local newspaper says nuclear weapons were stored at the site during the Cold War. During that time, relations between the U.S. and Russia were tense but did not increase. After the depot was closed, the Army Corps of Engineers took over, cleaned up the land and made it more useful. The depot is supposed to be clean and ready for sale next year. Activists say they want to protect the deer. They say they fear that the fences will be torn down when the property is sold. That might put the white deer in danger. It will be easy for them to migrate to other areas and be targeted by hunters and predators. Perhaps some will wander into roads and be killed by cars. They will not be protected as they have been for over 50 years, activists say. Dennis Money is working to protect the deer. His group – called Seneca White Deer Incorporated – can protect the deer by buying the property. If Seneca White Deer buys about 1,000 hectares – the deer will be safe, the group says. It might offer guided tours so visitors from around the world can see the rare deer. The Seneca County Industrial Development Agency received the rights to the land when the Army withdrew. The agency is a public corporation set up by New York State that promotes business development in the county. The Army turned parcels of land over to the development agency. The agency sold them to local businesses. A prison and a law-enforcement center have been built on the land. Bob Aronson is the executive director of the agency. He is trying to sell the rest of the land. Aronson said farmers want to buy the land for cattle to graze and crops to grow. The profits from the land sale will be invested back into other projects in the county. Another organization – the Nature Conservancy – also seeks to protect the deer habitat. Aronson has offered the land to the towns of Romulus and Varick. They are closest to the depot. He said he will charge them one dollar if they manage who gets the land or how it will be used. White deer are seen as special animals. Native Americans believe they are a blessing. In Michigan, Missouri and Ohio, hunters and civic workers shot and killed white deer in an effort to reduce the deer population. Local residents were furious. Scientists say the deer are not albino. They just lack pigment in their fur. I’m Mario Ritter.   Dan Friedell adapted this story for Learning English based on reporting from the Associated Press. Kathleen Struck was the editor. Do you have animals in your area that are dear to you? We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section or on our Facebook page. ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   acre – n. a measure of land area in the U.S. and Britain that equals 4,840 square yards (about 4,047 square meters) albino – n. a person or animal born with a medical condition that results in very pale skin, white hair, and pink eyes bred – v. to produce young animals, birds, etc. : to produce offspring by sexual reproduction corps – n. an organized part of the military — used in proper names depot – n. a place where military supplies are kept or where soldiers are trained enclose – v. to surround something genes – n. a part of a cell that controls or influences the appearance, growth, etc., of a living thing installation – n. a place that is used for training soldiers, keeping military supplies and machinery, etc. offspring – n. the young of an animal or plant predator – n. an animal that lives by killing and eating other animals : an animal that preys on other animals storage – n. space where you put things when they are not being used thrive – v. to grow or develop successfully : to flourish or succeed unique – v. very special or unusual wilderness– n. a wild and natural area in which few people live

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Colombia Tries to End Five Decades of War with Rebels

The government of Colombia and the rebel group the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia are talking to end 50 years of violence. In one breakthrough of the peace talks, Colombia plans to pardon 30 Marxist rebels who are in prison. The talks have been ongoing in Havana, Cuba since 2012. Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos set a target date of March 2016 for a final treaty.  In September, government negotiator Humberto de la Calle said both sides will “definitely” meet the March 23 deadline for the treaty. The two sides agreed to four main points. Land will be granted to poor farmers. Those in conflict with the government will be pardoned. All illegal drug production will be stopped. Rebel participation in politics will be welcomed.    The four points will be acted upon when the peace treaty is signed. A statement from Santos’ office said none of the 30 rebels to be pardoned have committed violent crimes.  Both sides will contribute to finding the tens of thousands reported missing. Government estimates show 220,000 people killed and millions displaced in the conflict that began in 1964. I'm Dorry Gundy.   Lou Lorscheider wrote this story for VOAnews.com. Jim Dresbach adapted it for Learning English. Kathleen Struck was the editor. _______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   breakthrough – n. an important discovery that happens after trying for a long time to understand or explain something   What do you think about the possible Colombian peace treaty? We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section or visit our Facebook page.  ​

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African Union Promises to Stop Child Marriage

The number of girls married in Africa is expected to double in the next 35 years, experts say. That means almost half, or 310 million girls, by 2050 will be married before they reach adulthood, says a United Nations report. The African Union says it wants to end child marriage in Africa. Delegates at a summit in Zambia are expected to set 18 years old as the lowest legal age for marriage across the continent.   Marriage before age 18 is already against the law in most African countries. Yet the UN says more 125 million African women and girls alive today were married before their 18th birthday. Experts say most were given to men in traditional or religious unions in violation of the law. Most child marriages involve girls, statistics show. Some boys ages 17 and younger do get married, but examples are rare. African Union chairwoman Nkosozana Dlamini Zuma says local culture that undervalues girls and women is to blame. Poverty and lack of education are also responsible, experts say. Cornelius Williams is associate director of child protection at UNICEF. He says studies show child marriage can be deadly. Child brides are less likely to finish school, he explains. They are more likely to become victims of violence. And, they are more likely to become teenage mothers, with a high risk of their children being stillborn. The best way to prevent child marriage is to enforce and improve educational options for girls, he says. That will change opinions about the role of girls in society. Enforcing the ban on marriage for girls younger than 18, he says, is necessary. So is educating parents. He says he could not think of his 16-year-old daughter marrying in the next two years. He says he wants his daughter to be able to determine her life path. He wants her to be able to determine whom she marries, what she wants to do with her life in terms of her profession -- in terms of any choices she wants to make. Cornelius Williams says, “I wish that for all girls in Africa.” I’m Kelly Jean Kelly. VOA’s Anita Powell reported on this story for VOANews.com. George Grow adapted her report for Learning English. Kathleen Struck was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section or post on our Facebook page. _____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   bride – n. a women who just married or who plans to be married role – n. position, the part that someone or something has in an activity or situation conceive – v. to think of or to create something in one’s mind determine – v. to decide something; to be the cause of something profession – n. a job that requires special education or training  

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NASA Paints Pluto Wild With Color

NASA, the U.S. agency that explores outer space, calls this image “Psychedelic Pluto.” Pluto is the furthest planet in our solar system. The word “psychedelic” means bright, edgy colors, and Pluto looks pretty wild in this image. The New Horizons spacecraft flew by Pluto and sent pictures back to Earth. NASA’s New Horizon scientists manipulated this image of Pluto. It highlights the many different areas on Pluto. The pictures were taken 35,000 kilometers away from the planet with the spacecraft’s Ralph/MVIC color camera. It was captured on July 14, 2015. On Earth, that is Bastille Day, which celebrates French independence.  Image Credit: NASA/JHUAPL/SwRI Anne Ball reported this story. Kathleen Struck was the editor. What do you think of Psychedelic Pluto? We want to hear from you in the Comments section and on our Facebook page. _____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   outer space –n. the area beyond Earth’s atmosphere where there are planets and stars psychedelic –adj. the effects of certain drugs that bring bright colors and strange sounds. edgy –adj. a new and unusual way spacecraft –n. a vehicle used to travel in outer space manipulated – v. to change something highlight –v. to bring attention to  

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Pope Talks to Africa About Poverty, Climate and Greed

It is the first time this Pope has been to Africa.  Three countries, 19 speeches, and big issues to address. These issues include poverty, the environment, and finding peace between Muslims and Christians. The African continent plays an important role for the Catholic Church. PEW Research says there are more than 170 million Catholics in sub-Saharan Africa. Both Catholics and Muslims are projected to increase “dramatically” over the next 35 years in Africa, according to Pew. With stops in Kenya, Uganda and the Central African Republic, human rights supporters hope he will push for political rights, religious tolerance and respect for minorities. Large, adoring crowds have turned out to see the popular pope. Pope Francis put poverty front and center in Kenya. His visited the slum of Kangemi, to show his support of the poor. He spoke at the St. Joseph the Worker Catholic church. Speaking through a translator, Pope Francis said he understands the difficulty the poor deal with every day. “I am here,” he said, “because I want you to know that your joys and hopes, your troubles and your sorrow, are not indifferent to me. I realize the difficulties which you experience daily. How can I not denounce the injustices which you suffer?” People cheered when he said that keeping water from people is a great injustice. The pope said it is a serious problem when people do not have access to infrastructure or basic services. Electricity, schools, roads and hospitals are human rights, he said. Even studios and workshops for artists and workers. He blamed “a selfish minority” for holding power and wealth that makes others poor. Later, the crowd cheered as he arrived at a rally for young people at a sports stadium. He stood and waved from his partly open, partly protected, white vehicle, called the “pope-mobile.” Pope Francis told tens of thousands of young Africans to resist corruption. He said corruption is like sugar: One can develop a taste for it, but in the end, it is destructive. The head of the Catholic Church also told the crowd to give up tribalism. Loyalty to tribes are sometimes stronger than political ties in Africa. It can lead to violence, like female genital mutilation (FGM). While in Kenya, the pope spoke about the environment. At the United Nations Environment Program in Nairobi on Thursday, he called for immediate action to stop climate change. He said: “In this international context, we are confronted with a choice which cannot be ignored: either to improve or to destroy the environment.” His comments come just days before a U.N. meeting on climate change in Paris. He said it would be catastrophic if nothing is done to stop climate change. “In a few days, an important meeting on climate change will be held in Paris," he said. "It would be sad, and I dare say even catastrophic, were particular interests to prevail over the common good.” Also while in Kenya, the pope spoke to a group of Christian and Muslim leaders. He said they must talk about guarding against radical behavior, and acts of violence in the name of God. Pope Francis said talk between the two religions is “essential.” He said too often, young people are “radicalized in the name of religion” to spread “discord and fear.” The second stop of the pope’s African tour is Uganda, where his plane touched down Friday. Arriving in Entebbe, he praised the country for its “outstanding” response in welcoming refugees. The U.N. says Uganda hosts more than a half-million refugees. Most of them have fled from war and conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan. Pope Francis said Uganda has shown outstanding concern for refugees and helped them “rebuild their lives in security, with a sense of dignity.” He said how we deal with refugees “is a test of our humanity.”  And, he said, the “world looks to Africa as the continent of hope.” His comments come as Europe and the United States struggle with placing refugees from Syria and other countries at war. This, after the terrorist attacks in Paris by Muslim extremists. The final stop on his tour is the Central African Republic on Sunday, where he will again hope to address issues between Muslims and Christians. Many hope that the pope’s visit can bring peace to a country that has seen violence between Muslims and Christians. Some question if it is safe for him to travel there. Since 2013 the country has been in chaos. A rebel takeover led to bloody violence between Muslims and Christians.      The pope is scheduled to visit a mosque in Bangui’s PK5 neighborhood. Many of the city’s mosques were destroyed in violence that started at the end of 2013. It continues to simmer even now. PK5 is the last place in the capital where Muslims can live. The conflict killed thousands and displaced nearly a million more. Most of the country’s Muslims fled to other countries. The pope is then scheduled to go home to Rome Monday. I'm Anne Ball.    Anne Ball reported on this story with information from VOA News correspondents. Kathleen Struck was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section and post on our Facebook page. _____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   tolerance – n. willingness to accept feelings, habits, iedeas, or beliefs different from your own adoring -- adj. to love, and or admire, very much slum -- n. part of a city where poor people live in bad conditions indifferent -- adj. not interested in something injustice -- n. unfair treatment --  the rights of a person or a group of people are ignored infrastructure -- n. the basic equipment and structures, like roads, needed for a country, and area or organization to function properly destructive -- adj. causing a very large amount of damage or  harm female genital mutilation -- n.  the cutting, or partial or total removal, of the external female genitalia for religious, cultural, or other non-medical reasons catastrophic -- adj. disastrous radicalized -- v. to cause someone to be more radical in religion or politics chaos -- n. complete confusion and disorder takeover -- n. when a person, people or company takes complete control of something

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US 'Open Doors' for International Students

More international students are studying at U.S. colleges and universities than ever before, a new report says. The report shows that nearly a million international students are studying at U.S. universities. That's among more than 20 million students at all U.S. universities. This is the highest number of international students on record since 1954. International students added $30.8 billion to the U.S. economy over the past year. Open Doors is the name of the report. Every year the U.S. Department of State and the Institute of International Education (or IIE) work together to release an annual report. IIE studies and supports international student exchange. The Department of State and IIE released the 2015 Open Doors report last week. Allan Goodman, Ph.D., is the president of IIE. Goodman told VOA he thinks having more international students in the U.S. is good for the future. "I think it's clear that being a global citizen… matters deeply to the next generation of students and our future leaders... We're hoping here at the Institute that international [study] increasingly becomes a part of everybody's education… because it's the only way we can really learn about the world we share." The number of international students in the U.S. has increased since 2006. It increased 10 percent between 2014 and 2015. That was the highest increase in 35 years. China sent more students to study in the U.S. in 2015 than any other country, the report states: 304,040. That is an increase of 10.8 percent from last year. India sent more students to the U.S. than it had in its past. It sent the second largest number of students to the U.S. with 132,888. Rajika Bhandari is the Deputy Vice President of Research and Evaluation for IIE. She said more Indian students are coming to the top-level science and technology facilities at U.S. universities. "What the data shows us is that the United States is still the Number One destination for students who seek a global education." Bhandari also said that programs for international students can make a lot of change. She suggested that a program called "One Hundred Thousand Strong in The Americas" helped increase the number of students from Latin America and the Caribbean. “One Hundred Thousand Strong in the Americas" is a combined effort of the U.S. Department of State and several education and development organizations. The program helps make international study between Latin America and the U.S easier and more affordable. "The number of students from Latin America and the Caribbean increased by almost 20 percent … making this the fastest growing region of origin for international students." Brazil sent 23,675 students to the U.S. That is 79 percent more than in 2014. The Brazil Scientific Mobility Program helped pay for the students. This program pays for science and mathematics students to study at U.S. universities for one year. Government scholarships were also important for students from the Middle East. Saudi Arabia had the fourth highest number of students in the U.S., with 59,945. That is an increase from last year of 11.2 percent. Kuwait increased its number of students by 24 percent. Both countries' governments have programs that pay for some of their students to study in other countries. Foreign governments pay 7.7 percent of fees for their students to study in the U.S. The U.S. government is also trying to increase the number of U.S. students studying in foreign countries. Evan Ryan is the Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs for the U.S. Department of State. She said that international student exchange makes stronger connections between countries. "Exchange programs help… U.S. foreign policy goals. They develop the relationships between people and communities… And they [give students] the language skills and global perspectives they need to succeed in their careers," she said. The number of U.S. students studying in foreign countries increased by 5.2 percent to 304,467 in 2014, the Open Doors report says. The Department of State opened a Study Abroad office in Washington, D.C. in March. The office manages several scholarship programs for American students who want to study in other countries. The office's website also shares news and resources for students and parents. The goal is to increase the number of U.S. university students who study in other countries. "It is [very important] that we continue to work to make study abroad more accessible. These exchanges [improve] ties between the United States and countries around the world," Ryan said. I'm Pete Musto. Pete Musto reported and wrote this story for VOA Learning English. Kathleen Struck was the editor. _____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story annual – adj.  happening once a year global – adj. involving the entire world facilities – n. something such as a building or large piece of equipment that is built for a specific purpose data – n. facts or information used usually to calculate, analyze, or plan something destination – n. a place to which a person is going or something is being sent affordable – adj. at a low enough cost that it is easy to pay for region – n.  a part of a country or the world that is different or separate from other parts in some way origin – n.  the place, social situation, or type of family that a person comes from scholarship(s) – n. an amount of money that is given by a school, government or organization to a student to help pay for the student's education perspective(s) – n. a way of thinking about and understanding something such as a particular issue or life in general accessible – adj.  able to be used or obtained Now it's your turn. Do you want to study at University in the United States? What are the options for students from other countries who want to study at a university in your country? Let us know in the comments section below or on our Facebook page. ​

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Eating Our Way Along Route 66 With Pizza, Fries, Burgers and Mole

  Americans celebrated Thanksgiving this week. The holiday centers on a big meal shared with family and friends.  The #Route66VOA team decided to get in the spirit. This week, we introduce you to some of the meals we shared along the Mother Road.​ Chicago Deep Dish Chicago, the eastern starting point of Route 66, is home to deep dish pizza. Chicago deep dish is very different from pizzas in other American cities. And it could just be the richest, cheesiest and most satisfying pizza around. It starts with a round cooking pan, between 5 and 8 centimeters deep. Then comes the pizza dough. The dough is usually made of wheat flour and some butter or oil. That helps make a thicker and sweeter crust. For Chicago deep dish, the dough is spread up and around the side of the pan. Next, the pizza maker fills up that bowl of dough. First comes the cheese, and plenty of it. Then, any meat or vegetables go on top of the cheese. The final step is tomato sauce. Unlike most pizzas, the sauce goes on top of Chicago deep dish.                                     Deep dish pizza takes much longer to bake than flat pizza. But it is worth the wait. The Horseshoe Springfield, Illinois, is known as the home of Abraham Lincoln. But it is also known as the home one very hearty meal: the horseshoe. Many decades ago, local railroad workers in Springfield would go to small diners to eat late at night. The cooks gave them a mix of everything that was left in the kitchen. That included ingredients like bread, meat, potatoes and cheese. A horseshoe starts with a big, thick piece of bread called Texas toast. A piece of meat is on top of the bread. Diners today can choose between beef, pork, chicken, and even fried fish. On top of the meat is a very large pile of French fries. And on top of the fries? A lot of cheesy sauce. A real horseshoe is a piece of iron attached to the bottom of a horse’s hoof. At D’arcy’s Pub in Springfield, our server told us just how the meal got its name. She said the French fries represent the nails in a horseshoe, and the thick piece of bread represents the horse’s hoof.  Cafes and restaurants in Springfield and other cities serve horseshoes all day long -- for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Whatever time of day you eat it, a horseshoe will probably keep you full for many, many hours. Mole in Santa Fe                  Santa Fe, New Mexico, is home to many cultures. And that diversity is reflected in its food, a mix of Mexican, Spanish, and Pueblo Native American cuisine. In most cafes around town, you’ll find mole on the menu. Mole is a sauce used in many New Mexican dishes. There are many different kinds of mole. But in this part of the world, the most famous is mole poblano. One of the best places to try it is at the friendly Plaza Café. It is the city’s oldest restaurant, and right next to Santa Fe’s main square. In the main square, we talked to an unofficial expert on mole. Rick Maguire was visiting from Tempe, Arizona. He is a big fan of mole. “Mole is a mixture of chocolate and about 20 to 27 different spices that they put together. And it’s got some chili in it. Some mole can be a little spicier, depending on how much of the chili part they put in there.” The thick, brown sauce is not sweet. The chocolate gives it a sort of smoky flavor. Mole is usually used in chicken and pork dishes. Rick Maguire says it was once only eaten by Mexico's elite. “Chocolate was invented in this part of the world -- that is where the cocoa plant is from. And chocolate was actually considered for the high end -- you know, the priests and things like that.” With its rich flavor, it is easy to understand why mole was once the food of priests. Irv’s Burgers Irv’s Burgers has served Route 66 travelers -- and Hollywood locals -- since 1950. Actually, it was not always Irv’s. It first opened in 1950 as Queenies Burgers. Then it changed to Joe’s Burgers. It became Irv’s Burgers in the early 1970s, when Irv Gendis bought the business. The original Irv owned it until 2000. That year, a Korean-American family bought Irv’s Burgers. The Hongs -- Sonia, Sean and Momma Hong -- have served up simple, fresh burgers and fries on paper plates for 15 years. They write personal messages on the plates for each customer. And the Hongs know many customers by name.                      The Hongs have had to fight to keep the burger stand open. And devoted Hollywood locals have helped them in the fight to keep this Route 66 gem in business.                       Irv’s did close briefly, but it re-opened in a new location in 2014. They have settled in just fine.                          The phone at Irv's rings non-stop, with customers calling ahead to place their orders. During lunchtime, the line spills out of the tiny restaurant. The menu at Irv’s is not very long, but the taste and quality of the food brings people back again and again. I'm Ashley Thompson.  And I'm Caty Weaver. Join us again next week for another report about Route 66.  Caty Weaver and Ashley Thompson wrote this story. Kathleen Struck edited the article. What are some famous foods in your city or country? Tell us about some of your favorites in the comments section, or visit us on our Facebook page!  _____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   hearty - adj. large enough to satisfy hunger ingredients - n. things that are used to make a food or meal hoof - n. the hard covering on the foot of an animal such as a horse or pig elite - n. the people who have the most wealth or status in a society devoted - adj. having strong love or loyalty for something or someone gem - n. something that is admired for its excellence

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After Years on Death Row, Freed Man Helps Others

Anthony Graves spent 12 years on death row as a prisoner in a Texas jail. But Graves was innocent. He spent many years fighting his sentence. A court overturned his conviction. He was exonerated. He now fights for criminal justice reform in the United States. Graves was convicted of murdering a family of six in 1994. The 49-year-old man spent 19 years in prison. For over half of those years, he was scheduled to be executed. Graves was cleared of the murder charges and was released from prison five years ago. Today, he speaks of criminal injustice while making public appearances. Graves says he has no bitterness over his years in jail. He says he uses his story “to educate people” about “the injustice that is going on in our criminal justice system.” Even when he was cleared in 2000, Graves remained in prison. Ten years later, he finally became the twelfth Texas death row prisoner cleared of criminal charges. Graves wants the justice system reformed – including the death penalty and crime lab misconduct. He was named to Houston’s Forensic Science Center board of directors earlier this year.  He hopes to prevent future convictions that are wrong. “I want to stay in your face every day to remind you that we need to do better,” Graves said of the criminal justice system. And the prosecutor who put Graves in jail? His license to practice law was taken away this year. A panel of attorneys found Charles Sebesta guilty of misconduct. Graves said he “never thought that a young, African-American man from the projects could file a grievance against a powerful, white DA in Texas and win,” he told Texas Monthly. Still, Graves said, Sebesta “should be tried before a court of law to answer to charges of attempted murder.” That would have been Graves’ execution. I’m Kelly Jean Kelly. Greg Flakus wrote this story for VOAnews.com. Jim Dresbach adapted it for Learning English. Kathleen Struck was the editor. What do you think of this story? We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section or visit our Facebook page.  _____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   convict – v. to prove that someone is guilty of a crime in a court of law exonerate– v. to prove that someone is not guilty of a crime death row – n.  part of a prison where prisoners who will be killed as punishment for their crimes live until they are killed forensic – adj. relating to the use of scientific knowledge or methods in solving crimes penalty – n. punishment for breaking a rule or law   ​

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Sunni IS Terrorists Say They Attacked Bangladesh Shi'ite Mosque

The Islamic State terrorist group says it is responsible for an attack on a Shi’ite Muslim religious center in northern Bangladesh on Thursday. One person was killed and three were injured in the attack. Gunmen shot people praying at the mosque in Bogra, which is about 200 kilometers northwest of Dhaka. Arifure Rahman Mondal is a police official in Bogra. He spoke to VOA about the attack by telephone. He said the gunmen entered the mosque and began shooting worshippers. He says four people were shot and taken to the hospital. The muezzin, or the person who calls Muslims to prayers, died at the hospital. Mondal told VOA “we have already launched a country-wide operation to hunt out the assailants." The muezzin was 70-year-old Moazzem Hossain. Television stations in the area reported the three injured men were seriously wounded. Mohammed Ukil is a family member of the muezzin. He said the attackers appeared to be worshippers. He said when the worshippers bowed in prayer, the attackers shot their weapons from the back of the mosque. Then they ran away, he says. This is the second attack on the small Shi’ite community. Last month, a bomb exploded at a gathering there of Shi’ite Muslims. Two people were killed. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina strongly criticized the attackers: “A good Muslim can never resort to terrorism. The gunmen who attacked the worshipers at the mosque cannot be called Muslim. In the name of religion these perverts are killing people, indulging in terrorism and bringing (a) bad name to Islam.” Officials in Bangladesh are worried about an increase in the number of militant Islamists in the country. Between February and October, four secular, or non-religious, writers and one publisher were killed in Bangladesh. They publish their opinions on the Internet. Police say they were murdered by Ansarullah Bangla Team, a strict Islamist group. In recent weeks, gunmen also killed two foreigners -- an Italian aid worker and a Japanese farming expert -- in separate attacks. The Islamic State terrorist group claimed responsibility for those attacks and for the bomb attack on the Shi’ite gathering. Officials say Islamic State terrorists have claimed responsibility for recent attacks in the country. But those officials blame the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party and its ally, Jamaat-e-Islami, for the attacks.   On Thursday, police said the Jamayetul Mujahideen Bangladesh group carried out the attack on the Shi’ite religious gathering last month. The Islamist group has been banned. Police also said they shot and killed the group’s leader during a raid on Wednesday. They killed another commander during the raid, as well. They also said they arrested five members of the group suspected of being involved in the bombing. About 96 percent of the 149 million Muslims in Bangladesh are Sunni. The rest are Shi’ites. Imran H. Sarker is an activist in Dhaka. He says the two groups have lived close to one another for a long time and have not fought. He told VOA many people were surprised when the bomb attack happened because many Sunni Muslims were at the gathering. The attack on the mosque on Thursday worries Shi’ite Muslims in neighboring India. Bilal Hussain is a Shi’ite community leader in New Delhi. He is part of a group based in India that works to reduce tensions between Sunni and Shi’ite Muslims. He told VOA he was shocked by the attacks. He says they appear to be new attempts to divide Muslims. He said “IS is trying to set the Sunnis in Bangladesh against the Shias. The group is an enemy of Islam.” I’m Christopher Jones-Cruise. Correspondent Shaikh Azizur Rahman reported this story from Bangladesh. Christopher Jones-Cruise adapted it into VOA Learning English. Kathleen Struck edited this story. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section or on our Facebook page. _____________________________________________________________ Words In the News   mosque – n. where religious services for Muslims are held worshipper – n. a person who shows respect, love or adoration for something or someone, usually a god  muezzin – n. a man who calls Muslims to prayer from a mosque assailant – n. a person who attacks another person bow – v. to turn your body or head toward the ground  resort to – phrasal verb to do (something) especially because no other choices are possible in the name of – expression acting on behalf of a belief or other person pervert – n. a person whose behavior is not normal or acceptable indulge in – phrasal verb to become involved in, such as a treat bad name – expression to be known for bad behavior or actions secular – adj. not religious  

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The Beautiful and Mysterious Shenandoah, and Its Native American Roots

English in a Minute: Wake-Up Call

Have you ever gotten a wake-up call? This expression can be used in many situations. Find out more about this idiom in this week's English in a Minute.

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In Japanese, Onigiri Means Love and Comfort

In Japan, onigiri rice balls are more common than sushi. And in Japanese culture, making onigiri is a way to show love. "You can make an onigiri by rolling rice in the palms of your hands,” said teacher – or sensei -- Takako Taniwaki at an onigiri-making class in Washington, D.C. Onigiri is a comfort food in Japan. People bring rice balls for lunch. They are good for a picnic, field trip and school event because they are easy to carry. And Taniwaki calls onigiri the soul food of the Japanese. Mothers and grandmothers make rice balls for their children or grandchildren with love. That kindness goes beyond Japan. Three organizations in Washington, D.C. hosted an onigiri-making class to raise funds.Their fund-raising goal is to tackle hunger. Hunger is a worldwide issue. More than 150 countries celebrated World Food Day on October 16 to increase awareness of food-related issues. Mayumi Uejima-Carr is co-president of Table for Two, one of the organizations raising funds and awareness. It is conducting its “One Million Itadakimasu" campaign until November 30. Itadakimasu is a Japanese word that expresses gratitude for food. It is a blessing said before eating. "We want to think about children who need help," said Uejima-Carr. Table for Two invites people to upload photos of making or eating onigiri to their website. The organization works with international companies to donate five meals for each photo uploaded. More than 2,300 photos have been uploaded so far from across the world. Table for Two also supports schools in low-income neighborhoods in the U.S. Uejima-Carr explained that food businesses donate 25 cents to upgrade a child’s school meal. That adds fresh vegetables to the meal.   Onigiri is also called omusubi. O is a Japanese word giving honor to someone or something. Nigiri comes from the verb nigiru, meaning to grasp and musubi comes from the verb musubu, meaning to tie or roll. The words express ideas of connection and closeness. What’s in onigiri? There are seasonings on the rice, pickled Japanese plums and baked salty salmon. The students at the onigiri-making class uploaded their photos to the fund-raising website. Then they ate onigiri together and said, “Itadakimasu!" I’m Jill Robbins. Now it’s your turn. Have you ever made a rice ball? Do you want to try a rice ball? What do you say when you start eating in your country? Please write to us in the comments section or on our Facebook page. Haruka Takeuchi wrote this story for VOA Learning English. Kathleen Struck was the editor. HOW TO MAKE ONIGIRI Ingredients: Rice Fillings of your choice (Tuna, Pickled plum, chicken, salmon and so on) Water Salt Dried seaweed Steps: Cook rice Put half a cup of steamed rice in a rice bowl. Wait for it to cool down. Wet your hand with water, or cut out about 10 inch sheet of plastic wrap. Put salt on your hands or on your plastic wrap. Place the rice onto your wet hand or onto the plastic wrap. Slightly spread the rice. Put the filling on the center of the rice then wrap it with the rice around it. Roll the rice in your hands and make it into a triangle, a ball or a cylinder. Wrap the rolled rice with seaweed. If you used plastic wrap, unwrap the rice and then put the seaweed on. ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   grasp ­– v. to take and hold (something) with your fingers, hands, etc  

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Black Friday, Cyber Monday Start Holiday Shopping Season

  America’s holiday shopping season started on Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving. It is the busiest shopping day of the year. Retailers make the most money this time of year, about 20 percent to 30 percent of all revenue all year. The National Retail Federation (NRF) says about 136 million people will shop during the Thanksgiving Holiday weekend.     More and more will shop online. In an era of instant information, shoppers can use their mobile phones to find deals. Nearly 80 percent of this year’s holiday shoppers, or about 183.8 million people, will shop on Cyber Monday, says the NRF. More than half of all holiday purchases will be made online, they say. One-in-five Americans will use a tablet or smartphone.    Pam Goodfellow is an analyst at Prosper Funding LLC. It is an online lender. “Given how shoppers today overall gravitate towards all things digital, there’s a high likelihood online shopping will be bigger than ever over the holiday weekend and on Cyber Monday,” she told the NRF. Online spending on Black Friday will rise 15 percent to hit $2.7 billion this year. Cyber Monday spending will increase 12 percent to $3 billion, says Adobe Systems Inc.   NBC News reported that for many, shopping online was “a more comfortable alternative” than crowded malls.  The shift to online shopping has had a big impact on “brick and mortar” shopping malls. Since 2010, more than 24 shopping malls have closed and an additional 60 are struggling, according to Green Street Advisors. It tracks the mall industry. However, Fortune says the weakest of the malls have closed. The sector is thriving again, it says. The International Council of Shopping Centers said 94.2 percent of malls were full, or occupied, with shops by the end of 2014. That is the highest level in 27 years. Economist Gus Faucher said lower unemployment and rising wages could give Americans more money to spend. According to the NRF, the average American consumer will spend about $805 on gifts. That’s about $630.5 billion between November and December – an increase of 3.7 percent from last year. Nonetheless, Cyber Monday is not the biggest online shopping day in the world. That distinction goes to China’s Singles’ Day, celebrated November 11, which posted record sales of $14.3 billion this year. I’m Mary Gotschall.     Mary Gotschall compiled this story for Learning English with reports from VOA News and other sources. Kathleen Struck was the editor. Do you have an opinion about this topic? Let us know what you think in the Comments section below, or on our Facebook page.  ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   retailer – n. a person or business that sells things directly to customers for their own use instant – adj.  happening or done without delay  mobile – adj. able to be moved gravitate – v. to be attracted to or toward something or someone digital – adj.  using or characterized by computer technology likelihood – n. the chance that something will happen destination – n. a place to which a person is going or something is being sent alternative – n. something that can be chosen instead of something else : a choice or option brick and mortar – adjectival phrase  used to describe a traditional store or business that is in a building instead of on the Internet mall – n. a large building or group of buildings containing stores of many different kinds and sizes occupy – v.  to fill or be in (a place or space) distinction – n. a special honor, recognition, or award    

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Americans Distrust Their Government, Poll Says

  Most Americans don’t have much trust in their government, says a new poll. Only 19 percent of Americans trust the government “always or most of the time,” the survey by the Pew Research Center finds. Pew says trust levels are among the lowest in surveys of the past 50 years. The trust level today is a big change from 15 years ago, right after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. At that time, 60 percent of Americans said they trusted the government, Pew said. Since then, trust in government has taken a major drop after the unpopular Iraq War and a dull economy. However, most Americans have a long list of things they want their government to do. That includes dealing with threats of terrorism, response to disasters and improving education. Air and water quality were also concerns. But Americans say they have little faith in government’s ability to respond. Only 20 percent of people polled by Pew say they would describe government programs as well run. The influence of money on politics may add to the distrust of government, says Pew. More than three-quarters of those polled say money “has a greater influence on politics and elected officials today than in the past.” Sixty-four percent say the large sums of money needed to run for president “discourages many good candidates from running.” The poll confirms divisions between Democrats and Republicans. Eighty percent of Republicans say they want smaller government.  Only 31 percent of Democrats say they want smaller government. About one-third of Republicans say government should help people gain health care coverage. More than three-quarters of Democrats say they want government to improve health care. Eighty-five percent of Republicans and 80 percent of Democrats tell Pew they believe the government should manage immigration. But Democrats and Republicans in Congress disagree on key immigration issues, such as what to do about Syrian refugees seeking admission to the United States. Pew says it surveyed 6,000 Americans in the trust survey. I’m Christopher Jones-Cruise. VOA News reported this story. Bruce Alpert adapted it into VOA Learning English. Kathleen Struck was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section or share your views on our Facebook Page. ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   poll – n. an activity in which several or many people are asked a question or a series of questions in order to get information about what most people think about something response - n. reaction discourage - v. to show disapproval; to make someone feel disheartened faith – n. strong belief or trust in someone or something manage - v. to direct or supervise  

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Russian News Media Fakes Stories About US

Did you know the U.S. Ambassador to Russia, John Tefft, once gave a press conference on the moon? And at center-ice of a hockey game? ​And with General Douglas MacArthur when the general landed in the Philippines during World War II? Well, of course, he was not in any of those places. Tefft was born in 1949, well after World War II ended. But the U.S. Embassy in Russia tweeted out those fake photos with the help of a computer program. It did that in response to the Russians using the same tricks. The first fake news came in September. A local Russian news channel said Teftt attended a demonstration of anti-Russian government activists. It layered a photo of Teftt over an image of the anti-government demonstration. So the U.S. Embassy responded in good humor. The Embassy took a photo of Teftt at a press conference and layered it on top of several backgrounds. Then the Embassy posted it on Twitter. There’s one of Teftt giving a press conference during the moon landing.     Another has him at a Russian hockey game.     And a third places him at the airport with MacArthur, the famous World War II general. This kind of photo “mash-up” can be Internet fun. Remember when McKayla Maroney, the American gymnast, missed out on a gold medal at the London Olympics? After she received her silver medal, she made a face showing her dissatisfaction with the result. That photo gained a life of its own, and was mashed-up with Maroney looking unhappy with works of art, at the Great Wall of China and at meetings with celebrities. All were funny because the same photo of Maroney was used over and over in different settings. When she met President Obama a few weeks after the Olympics, the duo posed for a photo while making the unhappy face. Photo mash-ups are used all over the Internet. But, US officials say, in Russia, such mash-ups are used to create propaganda. Benjamin Ziff is the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State. He told a Senate foreign relations subcommittee that Russian propaganda reaches 600 million people. And it costs $1.4 billion per year to produce. Ziff said that helping local communities develop a rich, uncensored media environment would be a good tool against the mash-ups. Ziff said there is no reason to try to combat every instance of Russian propaganda. But, he said, in the case of Ambassador Tefft, it made a point. The social media activity was noted by reputable news outlets in the United States and Russia. The website Buzzfeed wrote a story headlined “This Is The Best Photoshop The U.S. Government Has Ever Produced.” I’m Caty Weaver.   Molly McKitterick reported this story for VOANews.com. Dan Friedell adapted this story for Learning English. Kathleen Struck was the editor. Is there a propaganda machine in your country? Do you believe everything you read? We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section or on our Facebook page. ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   fake – adj. not true or real​ celebrity - n. a person who is famous uncensored - adj. of or relating to freedom of the press; removal of restrictions combat – v. to try to stop (something) from happening or getting worse instance - n. example reputable - adj. respected or trusted outlet - n. a television, radio or publishing company  

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'A Princess of Mars,' by Edgar Rice Burroughs, Part Four

Editor's note: This is the fourth in our series of programs called “A Princess of Mars.” The story is from a series of books by Edgar Rice Burroughs.  Last week, we told how John Carter observed a fierce battle between the green Martians and a race of red, human-like creatures. He also saw the beautiful Princess Dejah Thoris being captured after the battle. A short time later, John Carter, the Princess and their friend, the green Martian woman Sola, attempt to escape rather than face death. The Princess and Sola must flee while John Carter tries to slow the green warriors who are chasing them.  John Carter continues to tell what happens in Edgar Rice Burroughs’ story, “A Princess of Mars.” JOHN CARTER: The huge green warrior Tars Tarkas came slowly toward me with his thin sword. I backed away. I did not want to fight him. I did not wish his death. He had been as kind to me as a green Martian can be. As I stood watching him, a rifle fired in the distance, then another and another. Tars Tarkas and his warriors were under attack from another tribe of green warriors.  Within seconds, a terrible battle raged. As I watched, three of the attackers fell on Tars Tarkas. He killed one and was fighting with the other two when he slipped and fell. I ran to his aid, swinging my sword. He was on his feet. Shoulder-to-shoulder, we fought against the attackers. They finally withdrew after an hour of fierce fighting. TARS TARKAS: John Carter, I think I understand the meaning of the word “friend.” You saved my life when I was about to take yours. From this day, you are no longer a captive among our people, but a leader and great warrior among us. JOHN CARTER: There was a smile on his face. Once again, he took off a metal band from his arm and gave it to me.  TARS TARKAS: I have a question for you John Carter. I understand why you took the red woman with you. But why did Sola leave her people and go with you? JOHN CARTER: She did not want to see me or the Princess harmed. She does not like the great games held by your people where captives are led to die. She knows if she is caught, she too will die in the games. She told me she hates the games because her mother died there. TARS TARKAS: What? How could she know her mother?  JOHN CARTER: She told me her mother was killed in the games because she had hidden the egg that produced her.  Her mother hid Sola among other children before she was captured. Sola said she was a kind woman, not like others of your tribe.  Tars Tarkas grew angry as I was speaking.  But I could see past his anger. I could see pain in his eyes. I immediately knew Sola’s great secret. I have a question for you, Tars Tarkas. Did you know Sola’s mother? TARS TARKAS: Yes… and if I could have, I would have prevented her death. I know this story to be true. I have always known the woman who died in those games had a child. I never knew the child. I do now. Sola is also my child. JOHN CARTER: For three days, we followed the trail left by the Princess Dejah Thoris, Sola and poor ugly Woola. At last, we could see them in the distance. Their animal could no longer be ridden. They were talking. When we came near, Woola turned to fight us. I slowly walked to him with my hand out.  Sola was standing nearby. She was armed and prepared to fight. The princess was lying next to her feet.  Sola, what is wrong with the princess? SOLA: She has been crying much these past few days, John Carter. We believed you died so we could escape. The thought of your death was very heavy on this woman…my friend Dejah Thoris. Come and tell her you are among the living. Perhaps that will stop her crying. JOHN CARTER: I walked to where the Princess Dejah Thoris was lying on the ground. She looked at me with eyes that were red from crying. Princess, you are no longer in danger. Tars Tarkas has come with me as a friend. He and his warriors will help to see you safely home.  And ... Sola! I would have you greet your father -- Tars Tarkas -- a great leader among your people. Your secret no longer means death to anyone. He already knows you are his daughter. The two of you have nothing to fear. Sola turned and looked at Tars Tarkas. She held out her hand. He took it. It was a new beginning for them. DEJAH THORIS: I know our world has never before seen anyone like you, John Carter. Can it be that all Earthmen are like you? I was alone, a stranger, hunted, threatened. Yet you would freely give your life to save me.  You come to me now with a tribe of green warriors who offer their friendship. You are no longer a captive but wear the metal of great rank among their people. No man has ever done this.  JOHN CARTER: Princess, I have done many strange things in my life, many things much smarter men would not have done. And now, before my courage fails, I would ask you, to be mine in marriage. She smiled at me for a moment and then her dark eyes flashed in the evening light. DEJAH THORIS: You have no need of your courage, John Carter, because you already knew the answer before you asked the question.  JOHN CARTER: And so Dejah Thoris, Princess of Helium, a daughter of the Red Planet Mars, promised herself in marriage to John Carter, a gentleman of Virginia.  JOHN CARTER: Several days later, we reached the city of Helium. At first, the red men of Helium thought we were an attacking army. But they soon saw their Princess. We were greeted with great joy.  Tars Tarkas and his green warriors caused the greatest excitement. This huge group of green warriors entered the city as friends and allies.  I soon met Tardos Mors, the grandfather of Dejah Thoris. He tried several times to thank me for saving the life of the Princess. But tears filled his eyes and he could not speak.  JOHN CARTER: For nine years, I served in the government and fought in the armies of Helium as a Prince of the royal family. It was a happy time. The Princess Dejah Thoris and I were expecting a child.  Then, one day, a soldier returned from a long flight. When he landed he hurried to the great meeting room.  Tardos Mors met with the soldier and reported that every creature on the planet had but three days to live. He said the great machines that produced the atmosphere on the planet had stopped producing oxygen. He said no one knew why this had happened, but there was nothing that could be done.  The air grew thin within a day. Many people could do nothing but sleep.  I watched as my Princess was slowly dying. I had to try something. I could still move with great difficulty. I went to our airport and chose a fast aircraft. I flew as fast as I could to the building that produced the atmosphere of the planet. Workers were trying to enter. I tried to help. With a great effort I opened a hole. I grew very weak. I asked one of the workers if he could start the engines. He said he would try. I fell asleep on the ground. It was dark when I opened my eyes again. My clothing felt stiff and strange. I sat up. I could see light from an opening.  I walked outside. The land looked strange to me. I looked up to the sky and saw the Red Planet Mars. I was once again on Earth in the desert of Arizona. I cried out with deep emotion.  Did the worker reach the machines to renew the atmosphere? Did the air reach the people of that planet in time to save them? Was my Princess Dejah Thoris alive or did she lie cold in death?  For ten years now, I have watched the night sky, looking for an answer. I believe she and our child are waiting there for me. Something tells me that I shall soon know. Shep O’Neal was the voice of John Carter. Steve Ember was Tars Tarkas. Barbara Klein was Sola. And Gwen Outen was Princess Dejah Thoris. Paul Thompson wrote this story for VOA Learning English. Paul Thompson and Mario Ritter produced it. Did you enjoy our story? Please leave a comment or post on our Facebook page, thanks! ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   aid - n. the act of helping someone : help or assistance given to someone fierce - adj. very violent stiff - adj. difficult to bend or move atmosphere - n. a mass of gases that surround a planet or star

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Time and Place Prepositions: In, On, and At

  When English speakers talk about time and place, there are three little words that often come up: in, on, and at. These common words are prepositions that show a relationship between two words in a sentence. Some prepositions are rather easy for English learners to understand: behind, over, under, next to, etc… But these little two-letter prepositions seem to create confusion. Here are a few rules to help you understand when to use in, on, and at in a sentence. For describing time and place, the prepositions in, on, and at go from general to specific.  Prepositions and Time Let’s start by looking at how we talk about time. English speakers use in to refer to a general, longer period of time, such as months, years, decades, or centuries. For example, we say “in April,” “in 2015” or “in the 21st century.” Moving to shorter, more specific periods of time, we use on to talk about particular days, dates, and holidays . You may hear, “I went to work on Monday,” or “Let’s have a picnic on Memorial Day.” For the most specific times, and for holidays without the word “day,” we use at. That means you will hear, “Meet me at midnight,” or “The flowers are in bloom at Easter time.” Prepositions and Place When English speakers refer to a place, we use in for the largest or most general places. You can say that “VOA is located in Washington, D.C.” And “for the best food, try the restaurants in Chinatown.” For more specific places, like certain streets, we use the preposition on. You may know that President Obama lives on Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C. Finally, we get to the most specific places. For exact addresses or intersections, we use the preposition at.  If I invited you to visit us here at VOA, I would say, “Come to my office at 330 Independence Avenue.” To be exact, it’s at the corner of Independence and 3rd Street.” In English, though, there is always an ‘exception to the rule.’ When talking about transportation, things get a little hard to understand. We use on for public vehicles like buses or trains, but also for smaller ones like a bicycle. “I rode there on my bicycle.” However, you ride in a car. Still, it helps to know that English prepositions do have some rules. Following the “general to specific” rule should help you most of the time. I’m Jill Robbins. And, I’m Ashley Thompson. Dr. Jill Robbins wrote this story for Learning English. Ashley Thompson was the editor. ​Now it’s your turn. What helps you to remember the prepositions in English? Do  you have any grammar tips you’d like to share? Write to us in the Comments section or on our Facebook page. ​______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   general - adj. relating to the main or major parts of something rather than the details specific - adj. clearly and exactly presented or stated : precise or exact intersection - n. the place where two or more streets meet or cross each other    

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Worries of Famine After Drought in Ethiopia

The people of Ethiopia were nearly wiped out by famine in the early 1980s when 400,000 died. The country’s government is seeking aid to make sure that doesn’t happen again. In a country where 85 percent of the people are farmers, millions are in need of aid. Ethiopia needs $250-million in assistance so that 8 million people do not go hungry. One million metric tons of wheat for the next four months will cost almost $300 million. Getachew Redda is a government spokesman. He says the Ethiopian government will be able to manage the drought with the financial aid. But Ethiopia must help farmers by developing more wells and irrigation projects so they are not so dependent on rain. Weather experts say the drought is caused by El Niño, an extreme weather pattern. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in the United States, El Niño results in warmer-than-normal water in the Pacific Ocean that affects climates to the East.  Historically, droughts should be expected every 10 to 12 years. But as climate changes, rain will be less reliable and less predictable. Government officials say projects that create long-term solutions are more important than temporary wheat distribution. Wagayehu Bekele is the director of the agricultural transformation agency in Ethiopia. He says farmers must adapt their schedules and work when the weather is good, instead of during traditional planting seasons. “Traditional wisdom is not working anymore. If the rain starts early, they don’t start sowing or planting.” Agriculture makes up about half of Ethiopia’s economy. The lack of rain is also affecting the health of livestock. Technology plays an important role in making the country more modern and its agriculture industry more sustainable, says one environment advocate. Araya Asfaw is the director of the Horn of Africa Regional Environment Center and Network. He says more investment is needed in weather tracking and prediction. “We need to have more meteorological stations all over the place.” The crisis is building. Right now 8 million people are in danger of going hungry. But if the aid does not arrive soon, the United Nations estimates that number could soon double. I’m Dan Friedell. Marthe van Der Wolf wrote this story for VOA News. Dan Friedell adapted it for Learning English. ­­­­­­Kathleen Struck was the editor. What do you think about the drought and famine in Ethiopia? We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section or on our Facebook page. _____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   drought – n. a long time of little or no rain famine – n. when many people have little to eat irrigation – n. watering land so crops can grow meteorological – adj. the science of weather sustainable – adj. a practice that does not use up all resources transformation – n. a complete change in appearance, form, etc.

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Burned Firefighter Gets Historic Face Transplant

From VOA Learning English, this is the Health & Lifestyle report. A hospital in the United States says a volunteer firefighter has received the most extensive face transplant on record. Forty-one-year-old Patrick Hardison received a new face in what is being called an “historic” surgery. The surgery took place at New York University’s Langone Medical Center. Plastic surgeon Dr. Eduardo Rodriguez led the team of 150 medical personnel that performed the 26-hour transplant surgery. Rodriguez told reporters that the operation is critically important for two reasons. "The procedure that was performed on Patrick is critically important in that number-one, we transplanted functional eye lids, which is important for the preservation of Patrick's vision. Secondly, the amount of tissue that was transplanted had not been transplanted before." The Washington Post reported that a grant from the NYU medical center paid for operation. The hospital estimates the surgery cost between $850,000 and $1 million. Hardison waited a year for the perfect donor. The perfect donor would have not only a matching blood type, but fair skin and hair. The donor’s face is from a 26-year old New York bicycle mechanic and cyclist. David P. Rodebaugh was pronounced brain dead after a biking accident in late July. Doctor’s declared him dead on August 14. Two hours after the donor’s death, a team of doctors operated on the recipient, carefully removing Hardison’s face. Another team worked on the donor. A nonprofit organization called LiveOnNY seeks transplant organs and tissue in the New York City area. This organization identified Rodenbaugh as a possible donor. He had signed up to donate his organs. A spokesperson for LiveOnNY said Rodenbaugh’s mother gave permission to use his face. She noted that her son had always wanted to be a firefighter.   The accident In 2001, Patrick Hardison was a 27-year old firefighter in Mississippi and father of three children. He entered a burning house to save a woman when the roof fell on him. He suffered third-degree burns on his head, neck and upper torso. Hardison lost his ears, lips, most of his nose and nearly all of his eyelids. To protect them, doctors covered his eyes with pieces of skin. This left only a small hole for him to see out of. He was almost totally blind. His face was one big scar. When he went out into public, he told Fox News, people would stare. He tried to stay positive. But, he said, life was hard. He has had a total of 71 surgeries. Now, Hardison has working eyelids, ears, a full head of hair, as well as eyebrows and facial stubble, said his surgeon. Hardison said his new face has already made a huge difference when he goes outside. He told Fox News that he used to get stared at all the time. Now, he said, he is just an average guy. Hardison is still recovering from the surgery. He will have to take drugs his entire life to fight infections from the transplant. But he plans to be home in time for Thanksgiving. The former firefighter now has five children, two of whom have not seen their father’s face until now. I’m Anna Matteo.   Anna Matteo adapt this story for Learning English from several online sources including Fox News report by Malcolm Ritter and a BBC report by Michelle Roberts. Share you thoughts on this story in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page.​ ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   extensive – adj. large in size or amount : very full or complete transplant – medical : to perform a medical operation in which an organ or other part that has been removed from the body of one person is put it into the body of another person recipient – n. a person who receives something plastic surgery – n. surgery that improves or repairs the form or appearance of body parts critical – adj. extremely important third-degree – adj. causing severe injury positive – adj. thinking that a good result will happen : hopeful or optimistic

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Hackers Try to Steal Your Shopping Passwords

  As the holiday shopping season begins, hackers are trying to trick users into revealing their private account information. Last week, hackers tried to trick Amazon.com users into handing over their passwords and user names. Last holiday season, eBay and other online shopping websites were attacked. The attempt to steal individual Amazon user names and passwords was a “phishing” attack. Phishing tries to trick users into thinking the request comes from the company. In this case, hackers sent email to Amazon account holders. The email lied and claimed that 2,592 Amazon account records were stolen. Customers were asked to verify account information in the phishing email. The email’s signature was signed as "Amazon Customer Support." Electronics and computer experts say deleting the email is an easy solution. Amazon says thieves use hoax email that look like they are from Amazon company accounts. Amazon says many phishing emails contain misspelled words and bad grammar. The company says it never asks for personal information, passwords or bank account numbers. I'm Christopher Jones-Cruise. Jim Dresbach wrote this story for Learning English. Kathleen Struck was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section or visit our Facebook page. ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   phishing – n. the activity of defrauding an online account holder of financial information by posing as a legitimate company hackers – n. people who secretly get access to a computer system in order to get information or cause damage password – n. a secret series of numbers or letters that allows you to use a computer system email – n. messages that are sent electronically from one computer to another verify – v. to prove, show, find out, or state that something is true or correct scam – n. a dishonest way to make money by deceiving people fake – adj. not true or real misspell – v. to spell a word incorrectly  

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Native Rights Bill in Taiwan Loses Support

Support for a bill to give Taiwan’s native people the right to govern themselves is slowly fading, one minister says. Lin Chiang-yi, also known as Mayaw Dongi, is the minister of native, or indigenous, people in Taiwan. He has worked on the bill to give indigenous people the power to govern themselves. The bill made its way to parliament after many years of hard work, Mayaw says. The bill also would give the island’s indigenous people a large swath of Taiwan’s already limited land. The bill proposes awarding 45 percent of Taiwan’s land to the 2 percent of Taiwanese who are indigenous. They have lived on the island for at least 6,000 years. The Han Chinese arrived in the 1940s after the Chinese civil war. There are 16 indigenous groups. Mayaw says he fears that the bill will not get attention between elections in January and the seating of a new government in May. Also, the proposed land exchange has little support. Taiwan is an island of only 36,000 square kilometers and is controlled mostly by Han Chinese. After years of forced assimilation, native people regained some rights in the 1980s. Advocates like Mayaw say the native people need their own land and the ability to make their own laws. Native people fighting for their rights in countries like New Zealand and the Philippines see Taiwan as a model. But those in Taiwan are looking for more and see autonomy as a next step. In other election news, the main opposition candidate in January’s election named her running mate. Tsai Ing-wen asked Chen Chien-jen, Taiwan’s health minister during the SARS outbreak in 2003, to be her vice presidential candidate. Chen said he is obliged to serve because Taiwan is facing a “critical moment.” Tsai and Chen will make up the Democratic Progressive Party ticket. They are the main challengers to Eric Chu, the candidate of the ruling Kuomintang. Chu named former labor minister Wang Ju-hsuan as his running mate on Wednesday. The major issue in the upcoming election centers upon Taiwan’s relationship with China. The Kuomintang is seen as friendly toward Beijing, while the DPP provides an alternative option. I’m Mario Ritter.   This story was written by VOA News. Dan Friedell adapted it for Learning English. Kathleen Struck was the editor. What are your thoughts about the struggles of the native people in Taiwan? We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section or on our Facebook page. _____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   indigenous – adj. lived in a region before others assimilation – n. a person or group becoming like their new country or place obliged – v. to do something because it is necessary

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