Rodrigo Duterte Takes Office in the Philippines

  The new president of the Philippines has promised to be “relentless” in the fight against crime. Rodrigo Duterte was sworn in Thursday. He won the office on his promise to defeat crime and corruption within six months.   Duterte is known for carrying out strong policies to crush crime as mayor of Davao, the country’s second largest city.  During his swearing-in speech in Manila, the leader defended his methods for cutting crime. “I know that there are some who do not approve…,” he said. “Let me say that I have seen how corruption works. I have seen how illegal drugs ruin individuals and relationships…I have seen how corruption bled government funds.” He also said that as a lawyer, he knows “the limits of the powers” of the president. “You mind your work and I will mind mine. I know what is legal and what is not,” he said. Duterte’s critics accuse him of ordering extreme punishment of criminals, including unlawful killings. Human Rights Watch says he used death squads to kill more than 1,000 people. The accusations were investigated in 2009, but the case never went to trial. Many people in Davao say they forgive Duterte for any death squad activity because the city is safer. Duterte appealed to voters who consider crime, government corruption and poverty as major problems. Many Filipinos also liked his outspoken style during the campaign. He sometimes used offensive language, made threats and told crude jokes.   The spokesman for the city of Davao, Leo Villareal, said Duterte was successful in reducing crime because he was unpredictable. He said no one could stop Duterte as a result. The new president said he would be “relentless” during his “sustained” fight against corruption, criminality and illegal drugs. But he also said these problems are only signs of a disease affecting all of Philippine society. Duterte demanded openness and honesty in government and equality for people for both wealthy and poor people. Some political observers have raised concerns that the president’s main goal of fighting crime and corruption could slow the country’s economy. The Philippines saw continued economic growth under former president Benigno Aquino. Duterte is the first president to come from the country's south, where a Muslim rebellion has continued for years. Harvey Gamas teaches at Ateneo de Davao University. He said the president’s roots might help him deal with the separatist problem. Duterte met with two rebel groups in mid-June to propose a federal system of government to give Muslims more self-rule. Another issue Duterte is expected to deal with is the Philippines’ relationship with China. The two countries have been in dispute since 2012 about territorial rights in the South China Sea. Vietnam, Brunei, Malaysia and Taiwan also claim territory in the area. In recent years, Chinese crews have built islands in the sea, complete with airfields. China's official news agency Xinhua reported Thursday that President Xi Jinping sent a message of congratulations to Duterte. He said he was "willing to work with Duterte to push for improvement of relations between the two countries.” I’m Caty Weaver. Ralph Jennings reported this story for VOANews.com. Bryan Lynn it for Learning English with additional information from Associated Press and Reuters.  Caty Weaver was the editor. _______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story relentless – adj. to continue without becoming weaker death squad – n. a group of people given the task of killing others, usually with the indirect approval of government crude – adj. rude, especially language of a sexual nature sustained – adj. continuing for an extended period of time erosion – n. the process of gradually being destroyed

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Activists Critical of Latest Human Trafficking Report

  Activists are voicing concerns about a new United States government report on human trafficking. The State Department released its 2016 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report Thursday. Secretary of State John Kerry spoke to reporters at the department’s headquarters. He said human trafficking remains a major problem in some areas of the world. Human trafficking has been described as organized criminal activity in which human beings are treated as possessions. The new report explores issues such as the use of modern slavery, child soldiers, and forced marriage. It also describes steps taken by governments around the world to fight trafficking. The State Department and rights groups estimate that the trafficking industry earns about $150 billion dollars a year. They say 20 million people leave their home countries and go overseas to be abused as laborers. The report rates countries, placing each in one of three tiers, or groups, and also to a watch list. In the first tier are countries that meet minimum standards for dealing with human trafficking. The second tier is made up of countries that do not meet the minimum levels, but are making efforts to comply. Tier 3 is the group of countries judged to do the least to fight human trafficking. Thailand has been at the center of trafficking groups that operate across Southeast Asia. Activists are criticizing the State Department’s decision to move the country from Tier 3 to its Tier 2 Watch List. The U.S. ambassador to Thailand is Glyn Davies. He says the country’s higher ranking is a sign of better efforts against trafficking. But some activists disagree. Kristen Abrams is the director of the Alliance to End Slavery and Trafficking, a group known as ATEST. She said, “The conditions are worsening in that country for migrant workers. There continues to be egregious labor abuse, particularly in the seafood industry.” Abrams said she believes Thailand should be in Tier 3. She also disagreed with Malaysia’s ranking in the Tier 2 Watch List. Malaysia was upgraded one step last year. The Migrant Workers Rights Network said it supported the upgrade for Thailand, saying it had made “significant improvements.” The group claims to have 4,000 members in Thailand and Myanmar. Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha also praised the upgrade. “We’ve done much better than in previous times,” he said earlier this week. Prayuth, a former general in the Thai military, ousted Thailand’s civilian leadership two years ago. He has used his powers to try to reduce trafficking in Thailand. Thailand’s eastern neighbor, however, was downgraded in the new U.S. report. Myanmar, the country also known as Burma, was placed in Tier 3. The report said Myanmar had not done enough to stop the use of child soldiers and forced labor. It also noted the treatment of Rohingya Muslims in the Buddhist-majority country. Myanmar’s government has faced criticism for not doing enough for the group. In fact, the government refuses to use the word Rohingya when talking about the group. Myanmar considers them Bengalis who are illegal immigrants from Bangladesh. Myanmar is now in its first year of a largely democratically elected government. The TIP report places Myanmar with Iran, North Korea and more than 20 other countries said to be the worst in dealing with the trafficking of humans. The State Department describes the report as a tool to work with foreign governments on the issue of human trafficking. I’m Mario Ritter. Steve Herman and Ken Bredemeier reported this story for VOANews.com. Mario Ritter adapted it for Learning English. George Grow was the editor. _____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   exploit – v. to use, usually involving misuse or mistreatment minimum standards – n. the most basic qualities that meet required needs comply – v. to do what has been asked or ordered egregious – adj. very easy to notice, very bad

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June 30, 2016

A look at the best news photos from around the world.

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Iceland Soccer Team Continues to Surprise at Euro 2016

This is What’s Trending Today... International soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal said the Iceland soccer team at the UEFA Euro 2016 tournament was “not going to do anything.” His comments came after Iceland tied Ronaldo’s Portuguese team 1-1 in the first week of the tournament. Then Iceland tied Hungary. Then, it beat Austria. And Iceland advanced to the elimination rounds of the tournament. Few expected Iceland to make it that far. American comedian and television show host Stephen Colbert enjoyed the Icelandic announcer as he reacted to the game-winning goal against Austria. The announcer screamed, as if he could not believe what had happened. Colbert talked about the announcer’s excitement on his late-night television show. He joked that his show’s TV network, CBS, might want to consider hiring that announcer to add excitement to its sports programs.  Iceland faced mighty England on Monday. No one gave the team from Iceland a chance to beat England. After all, only a few players on the team are well-known outside of Iceland. England has players from famous teams like Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City. But on Monday, Iceland continued its unbelievable journey. Behind goals from Ragnar Sigurdsson and Kolbeinn Sigthorsson, Iceland defeated England, 2-1. And soccer fans around the world are still reacting to Iceland’s “Cinderella story.” The phrase refers to the famous story of Cinderella. In the fairy tale, Cinderella is the overlooked beauty who catches the eye of the prince at a big party. In sports, the phrase is used for teams that unexpectedly win at major events. Before the game against England, Iceland had never won an elimination game at a major international tournament. Ahead of the tournament, England’s team was ranked 11th in the world. Iceland was ranked 34th. Iceland may be in the middle of a soccer revolution, says Vice Sports. The country has invested money in the sport in recent years. It has built more large buildings where teams can play soccer indoors. This is important in a place like Iceland, where the weather sometimes makes it impossible to play outdoors.  Before the tournament, Iceland was not seen as a contender for the European championship. One writer put together a silly explanation of how the team from Iceland was chosen. She said the team was made up of 23 men who had nothing better to do in June and July. But soccer fans now respect the team from Iceland. Many viewers enjoyed the way the players gathered to celebrate with their fans. They stood together, raised their hands above their heads, and clapped slowly before ending with a loud cheer.   Iceland’s players look like they have found a way to win, playing good defense and waiting for opportunities to attack. But they will be tested again on Sunday against the tournament’s host nation, France. Once again, many people think it will be difficult for Iceland to win against a team filled with international superstars. But after the win against England, anything seems possible. Iceland’s team manager said “now… every obstacle in their way is going to look smaller.” And that’s What’s Trending Today. I’m Mehrnoush Karimian-Ainsworth.   Dan Friedell wrote this story for Learning English. His story was based partly on reports from The Guardian, ESPN and the Associated Press. Ashley Thompson was the editor. Who do you think (or hope) will win the Euro 2016 tournament? We want to know. Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page. _______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   obstacle – n. an object that you have to go around or over : something that blocks your path superstar – n. an extremely famous and successful performer, athlete, etc. host – n. a group that organizes an event and provides the things that are needed for that event. clap – v. to hit the palms of your hands together usually more than once silly – adj. playful and funny elimination – n. the act of removing something (from a tournament) contender– n. a person who has a good chance of winning something in a contest

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Could Have, Would Have, and Should Have

From VOA Learning English, this is Everyday Grammar. Today we will take a look at the modal verbs could have, would have and should have. These past tense modals are useful for expressing your present feelings about a past decision (or other action). Could have, would have, and should have are sometimes called “modals of lost opportunities.” They work like a grammatical time machine. The simple past just tells what happened. Past modals tell what could have, would have, and should have happened. To form these past modals, use could, would, or should followed by have, followed by a past participle verb. Use have for all pronouns; never use has or had to form a past modal. Here are some examples: She could have gone to any college she wanted to. I would have gone to the party, but I was tired. He should have told the truth about what he saw. Each of these modals has a slightly different meaning. We’ll look at each of them using examples from movies and popular songs. Could have We’ll start with could have. Could have means that something was possible in the past, but it did not happen. I could have gone directly to college, but I decided to travel for a year. Listen to this song by 1980s teen pop star Tiffany. The singer is thinking about past possibilities with her lost love. Could have been so beautiful Could have been so right Could have been my lover Every day of my life Native speakers often do not pronounce their past tense modals as clearly as Tiffany. Could have been usually gets contracted to could’ve been or even coulda’ been. Listen to Marlon Brando in the classic film “On the Waterfront.” Brando’s character, Terry Malloy, was once a promising young boxer. “You don’t understand. I coulda’ had class. I coulda’ been a contender. I could have been somebody—instead of a bum.” To form the negative with these modals, use not between could and have. Could not have means that something was impossible in the past. For example: She could not have been on that flight because I just saw her at work. ”Defense lawyers often use could not have to argue for a client’s innocence. A popular compliment in English is, “I couldn’t have said it better myself.” You can say this when you like the way somebody said something. It is a way to show strong agreement. Would have Let’s move on to would have. Would have is a bit more difficult because it has two common structures. The first is with but. I would have A, but I had to B. Use this structure to show that you wanted to do something in the past, but you could not.  I would have called, but there was no phone service.  I would have loaned you the money, but I didn’t have any. Would have also forms the result clause of a past unreal conditional. For example: If I had known they were vegetarians, I would have made a salad. You can always reverse conditional sentences. If would have comes first, there is no comma. I would have made a salad if I had known they were vegetarians. Past unreal conditionals are very complex; you can learn more about them on a previous episode of Everyday Grammar. Usually, would have suggests a bad feeling about the past. But not always. In this song by the band Chicago, the singer is surprisingly happy that his ex-girlfriend cheated on him. Her infidelity gave him the opportunity to meet someone else. And that someone else turned out to be his true love. If she would have been faithful If she could have been true Then I wouldn’ta been cheated I would never know real love I would've missed out on you Should have Finally, let’s look at should have. Should have means that something did not happen, but we wish it had happened. We use should have to talk about past mistakes. A worried mother might say, “I was so worried about you. You should have called!”  Should have is common in apologies. For example: I’m sorry that I’m late for work. I should have woken up earlier. You might remember Lieutenant Dan in the movie Forrest Gump. In the movie, Dan loses both of his legs in the Vietnam War. He would have died, but Forrest saved him. Listen for should have as Dan confronts Forrest. “You listen to me. We all have a destiny. Nothing just happens. It’s all part of a plan. I should have died out there with my men. But now I’m nothing but a cripple!” Should have can be used in a light-hearted way. In this song, country singer Toby Keith imagines how exciting his life would be if he had chosen to be a cowboy.   I should’ve been a cowboy I should’ve learned to rope and ride Wearing my six-shooter Riding my pony on a cattle drive I couldn’t have said it better myself. As you can see, these modals of lost opportunities offer a colorful way to talk about past choices. That’s all for this week. Join us next week for more Everyday Grammar. I’m John Russell. And I’m Dr. Jill Robbins. Adam Brock wrote this article for VOA Learning English. Hai Do was the editor. ____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   modal verb – n. a verb (such as can, could, shall, should, ought to, will, or would) that is usually used with another verb to express ideas such as possibility, necessity, and permission contender – n. a person who tries to win something in a game or competition bum – n. a person who is lazy or who does something badly compliment – n. a comment that says something good about someone or something vegetarian – n. a person who does not eat meat infidelity – n. the act or fact of having a romantic or sexual relationship with someone other than your husband, wife, or partner confront – v. to oppose someone, especially in a direct and forceful way cripple – n. a person who cannot move or walk normally because of a permanent injury or other physical problem six-shooter – n. a kind of gun (called a revolver) that can hold six bullets (often used to describe guns used in the old American West) cattle drive – n. the process of moving cows from one place to another  

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Report: Women Prisoners Tortured in Mexico

Five years ago, police stopped Veronica Razo on a street in Mexico City and took her to federal prison. She was beaten, tortured with electrical shocks and raped. Today, she is still awaiting the finish of her trial. She is one of a large number of women who were tortured after their arrest, according to a report by Amnesty International. The rights group said its report is based on meetings with or statements from 100 women who were jailed in Mexico. All of them reported torture or other abusive treatment, it said. Thirty-three reported being raped while in detention. Erika Guevara-Rosas is a human rights lawyer and Amnesty International’s Americas Director. She said the jailed women are victims of what she calls Mexico’s “so-called war on drugs.” “They are usually seen as easy targets by authorities who are often more eager to show they are putting people behind bars than to ensure they are finding the real criminals,” she added. Guevara-Rosas said that, in Mexico, “sexual violence” has become a routine part of how police question criminal suspects. Veronica Razo was charged with being part of a kidnapping ring. Amnesty International asked why it has taken so long for a court to decide her case. Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto traveled to Canada this week for talks with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and U.S. President Barack Obama. The Mexican leader said his government is making progress on human rights. “Our government has made an important effort to advance issues related to human rights,” he said. “We still have work to do. However, I think we are moving in the right direction towards having human rights being fully respected.” The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation reported on the talks. It said Philippe Couillard, premier of Quebec Province, expressed concerns about human rights during a meeting with Pena Nieto on Monday. Couillard said that Mexico is “moving in the right direction.” When Razo was arrested, her daughter was seven and her son was 13, according to Amnesty International. They are now 13 and 18. Amnesty says the son is unable to go to college because of all the money it has cost to pay lawyers defending his mother. Amnesty International provides other examples of women it says were abused after their arrest. It said that Tailyn Wang was seven months pregnant when federal police officers broke into her house in 2014. The police took her to a police station. After being beaten and sexually abused by the police, she miscarried, Amnesty International said. The fetus was not yet viable and died. I’m Ashley Thompson.   VOANews.com reported on this story. Bruce Alpert adapted the report for Learning English. George Grow was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section and share your views on our Facebook Page. _______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   authorities – n. people who have power to make decisions and enforce rules and laws eager – adj. very excited to do something ensure – v. to make something sure, certain, or safe routine –​ adj. done very often​ ring – n. a group of criminals who plan and carry out crimes together advance – v. to move forward viable – adj. capable of living or of developing into a living thing  

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Olympic Chief: Zika Not Top Concern at Rio Games

Excitement is building for the 2016 Summer Olympics.   The opening ceremony will take place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on August 5. For months, news media have been reporting on Rio’s dirty water, mosquitoes carrying the Zika virus, transportation and security issues. That does not sound promising for a city expecting famous athletes, government leaders and visitors from around the world for the games. But during a recent visit to VOA’s headquarters in Washington, Olympic Organizing Committee chief Sidney Levy said something surprising: his top concern is not the Zika virus. Zika spreads to human beings through mosquito bites. Experts are especially concerned about infected mosquitoes biting pregnant women. They say this could cause microcephaly, which is linked to brain defects from birth. Sidney Levy said he has 4,000 people working to make Rio’s sports centers ready for the 2016 Olympics.  “Today, I have 4,000 people working for myself. In the fields, in the beaches in the parks, in t-shirts, and I have not a single case of Zika. So we really think this is not a threat.” Levy defended his claim. He said a study by researchers at England’s Cambridge University shows the likelihood of getting infected with Zika during August in Rio is one-in-1 million. Still, some athletes have expressed concerns about competing at the 2016 Olympics. The Irish golfer Rory McIlroy said recently he would not travel to Rio because he was worried about Zika. And a group of 150 doctors, scientists and bioethicists wrote a letter to the World Health Organization. They want the Olympics moved or postponed because of Zika. Levy said workers have been using insecticide products in the city for months and they will continue to do so during the games. Insecticides are designed to kill insects. Also, August is winter in Earth’s Southern Hemisphere. This should mean somewhat cooler temperatures and fewer active mosquitoes. With so many people coming into Brazil, Levy told VOA he is more concerned about security and transportation. The city of Rio de Janeiro has been making improvements to its public transport system. It has new underground rail lines, new roads, new light trains and buses. Levy said he thinks more than four times as many city residents will use public transportation after the games than before. “So when we decided to do the games, the main question is, ‘Why to do the games?’ Why go into that such complicated effort? And there is just one answer. Is for: ‘What can the games do for your city?’ That's what really the matter. And we decided to do a major transformation of the public transportation system in Rio de Janeiro. We decided that seven years ago, and we went for that." Rio is home to more than six million residents. About 500,000 more people are expected to visit there during the Olympics. City officials are preparing for the large number of arrivals. They also plan to use 85,000 security officers during the games. Only two years ago, the World Cup finals were played in Rio. And an estimated two million people crowded the city’s streets during the visit of Pope Francis. Sidney Levy said city officials learned from that experience and plan to use the same system to keep people safe. Levy seems happy with the way Olympic organizers prepared for the games. He said they kept working even when faced with other issues, such as the impeachment trial of Brazil’s president. But he admitted to being dissatisfied with one aspect of the Games preparation. The water of Guanabara Bay is still not clean. Some Olympic sailing events are to be held in the bay. Right now only 50 percent of the sewage flowing into those waters is being treated. Levy said he hoped the number would be closer to 80 percent. But there have already been two test sailing events. And none of the competitors got sick. "And we are able to run the competition. We will run the competition. No athlete is going to get sick. But we failed to clean the waters for the population." If the water is not clean in time for the Olympics, Levy says the sailing events will be moved to another area. I’m Dan Friedell. Jeff Swicord wrote this story for VOANews.com. Dan Friedell adapted it for Learning English. George Grow was the editor. How do you think the city of Rio de Janeiro is doing in preparing for the 2016 Olympics? We want to know. Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page. _______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   sewage – n. waste material (such as human urine and feces) that is carried away from homes and other buildings in a system of pipes impeachment – n. the act of charging a public official with a crime done in office bioethicist – n. an expert in biology and medicine who understands the rules of good and bad behavior birth defect – n. a problem, disease or fault contracted before birth that makes a baby not perfect

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News Words: Genocide

The meaning of this news word carries weight when used to describe horrific events.

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US Government Using Social Media to Determine Terror Threats

  The United States government is increasingly using social media to investigate people who may represent a security threat to the country.   The latest example comes from the Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection office. It wants to ask foreign visitors to provide information about their accounts on social media sites like Facebook and Twitter. An optional – or non-required – question would be added to the form that people must complete before entering the United States. The form asks information like the person’s name, phone number, and countries they have visited since 2011. The proposed social media question would only concern travelers who do not need a visa to enter the United States.  Travelers from 38 countries are permitted to enter the U.S. without a visa. The Customs and Border Protection office said in its proposal that adding the question would affect about 24 million people. There is a 60-day comment period for the public to share their opinion about the proposal. Congress Also Proposing Social Media Bills U.S. lawmakers have also proposed bills concerning the use of social media for researching possible terrorism links.   Senator John McCain sponsored a bill that would require the Department of Homeland Security to look at internet activity and social media profiles of anyone seeking entry to the United States.  Senators Martin Heinrich and Jeff Flake sponsored a bill that would permit the Department of Homeland Security to “search open source information, including internet and social media postings” of people applying for a visa to enter the U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer has proposed a different plan to help officials search for possible terror links. He wants to reward people who send officials terrorism-related information from social media posts. Anyone whose information leads to the arrest of someone planning an attack in the U.S. would be paid money. Schumer’s proposal would make use of the Justice Department’s Rewards for Justice program. Schumer said that investigators need the public’s help. Schumer said he wants to award people who come forward with information anywhere from $25,000 to $25 million. In the House of Representatives, Congressman Stephen Fincher proposed a bill that centered on stopping prisoners from becoming radicalized.  His bill would require volunteers in federal prisons to provide their social media accounts during their background investigations.  Fincher called U.S. prisons a “breeding ground” for Islamic radicalization. Chris Hannas reported this story for VOANews.com. Mehrnoush Karimian-Ainsworth adapted the report for Learning English. Ashley Thompson was the editor.   ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story     optional – adj. available as a choice but not required sponsored – v. to introduce and support (a proposal) in a legislative assembly breeding ground – expression. a situation or place in which bad things can easily begin to develop We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section.   

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Settlements, Recalls Announced For Volkswagen and Toyota

  Volkswagen’s emissions cheating will cost the company at least $15 billion in the United States alone. On Tuesday, the U.S. Department of Justice announced that Volkswagen would make the largest-ever automobile buy-back offer in U.S. history. Reports that Volkswagen had cheated on emissions tests in the U.S. first came out late last year. Investigators found that the German automaker had installed software in its vehicles that produced false test results. It would reduce the cars' pollution levels during testing. So, the vehicles would wrongly pass U.S. pollution tests. Owners of about 500,000 Volkswagen automobiles in the U.S. will now be able to sell their vehicles back to the company for a fair price. The owners will also be paid up to $10,000 each. The car maker will also pay about $5 billion for U.S. programs that promote no-emission vehicles and reduce air pollution in general. The Volkswagen cars involved created 40 times more pollution than is permitted in most U.S. states. The scandal affected 11 million vehicles worldwide. Volkswagen must repair or buy 85 percent of the cars by June 2019 or else it will face more punishment. The settlement resolves the largest class-action lawsuit in U.S. automotive history. But the legal process is not yet over. Volkswagen and the Department of Justice have not decided what to do about the 85,000 other VW vehicles under investigation. Volkswagen also produces cars sold under the Audi and Porsche brands in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency administrator Gina McCarthy said the most important thing is “getting VW’s vehicles off the road.” In a statement posted on its website, Volkswagen said the settlement is not an admission of liability. In other automotive news, the Japanese car company Toyota Motor Corporation announced a recall of over 3 million vehicles. Toyota says some cars have faulty airbags and failing emissions control units. The cars under recall are the Prius, Corolla and Lexus CT200h models produced as long ago as 2006. The recall is not linked to the Takata company. Takata is an airbag supplier responsible for recent recalls by many car companies. Airbag problems have affected over 100 million vehicles around the world. I’m Anne Ball.       Dan Friedell adapted this story for Learning English based on reports from VOANews.com, Associated Press and Reuters. Caty Weaver was the editor. What do you think about the automotive news? We want to know. Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page. _______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   emissions – n. the pollution sent out by a car after its fuel ignites settlement – n. a lawsuit in which many people join together to sue because they all say they were harmed by the same person or group class-action – n. a lawsuit in which many people join together to sue because they all say they were harmed by the same person or group scandal – n. an occurrence in which people are shocked and upset because of behavior that is morally or legally wrong liability – n. the state of being legally responsible for something: the state of being liable for something recall – n. a request by a company for people to return a product that has a defect or problem

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Remembering Legendary Basketball Coach Pat Summitt

  This is What’s Trending Today: Pat Summitt led the women’s basketball program at the University of Tennessee for 38 years. Summitt started coaching the university’s women’s team while in her early twenties. Two years after being named head coach, she was co-captain of the United States women’s basketball team. That team won the silver medal at the 1976 Olympics. She later won a gold medal as the U.S. team’s coach. Summitt was one of the most influential and successful college basketball coaches ever. Her University of Tennessee teams won almost 1,100 games and eight championships. Many of her players went on to become coaches or to play professional basketball. Pat Summitt died on Tuesday. She was 64 years old. Five years ago, doctors found she had early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Americans have been reacting to her death. President Barack Obama released a statement. It said: “she outworked her rivals, made winning an attitude, loved her players like family, and became a role model to millions of Americans, including our two daughters.” In 2011, Pat Summitt announced that she had the disease and planned to retire from coaching. She left her position a year later. Summitt got her start in sports before the United States had laws requiring women and men to be treated equally in school sports. Sometimes she and her players would sleep in another team’s training area before a game because they did not have money for hotel rooms. But her success could not be ignored, and women’s basketball is now one of the most-watched college sports in the U.S. Kara Lawson played for Pat Summitt at the University of Tennessee. Lawson went on to play professional basketball and won an Olympic gold medal. Her reaction to Summit’s death was simple. She wrote “Gutted. I love you. Thank you.” Tennis great Billie Jean King broke gender barriers during her career. She wrote: “Pat Summit was an all-time great with a brilliant mind, a love of basketball and a deep loyalty to all around her.”  Abby Wambach was a star on the U.S. women’s soccer team for many years. She called Summitt “a hero of mine.” Becky Hammon is an assistant coach with the National Basketball Association’s San Antonio Spurs. She called Summitt “a true pioneer and one of the greatest of all time.” And that’s What’s Trending Today. I’m Dorry Gundy.   Dan Friedell wrote this story for Learning English. Additional information came from a report on VOANews.com. George Grow was the editor. What do you think of the reaction to Pat Summitt’s death? We want to know. Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page. _______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   attitude – n. the way you think and feel about someone or something rival – n. a person or thing that tries to defeat or be more successful than another role model – n. someone who another person admires and tries to be like gutted – adj. very sad or disappointed pioneer – n. a person who helps create or develop new ideas, methods, etc. gender – n. the state of being male or female

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June 29, 2016

A look at the best news photos from around the world.

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Comic Book Fans Form a Community at 'Awesome Con'

Movies and television with superheroes are popular all over the world. Both young people and adults love characters like Batman and Spider Man. But for some people, such characters and their stories are more than just simple entertainment. Every year, cities around the world hold events for people interested in super heroes, science fiction stories and the world of make-believe. These gatherings are often called comic book conventions, or comic “cons.” Two of the biggest comic cons in the U.S. are held in San Diego, California and New York City. Until recently, Washington, DC was among the cities in the U.S. without its own big event for superhero and science fiction lovers. This all changed in 2013 when Awesome Con first arrived in Washington. Ben Penrod has loved comic books, science fiction, fantasy, and all things nerdy throughout his life. Growing up in Annapolis, Maryland, Penrod worked in a store that sold comic books. He says this made his interest in nerdy media grow. "From there it just became an obsession. And I started making more friends who were into these types of things." Penrod bought and sold large comic book collections in his free time. He would often visit a store called Third Eye Comics. He then became friends with the owners. Together they decided that Annapolis needed its own comic book convention. So in 2011 Penrod and his partners organized the first Awesome Con in Annapolis. Over 7,000 people attended. "It was larger than anything I had ever done before. And it was scary. But it was also exhilarating." Penrod says these gatherings are a place people can come to share interests that may be considered non-traditional. In addition to comic book lovers, fans of video games and professional wrestling attend the event. Artists and creators of comic books and similar media come to comic cons to share their work with the public. Actors from movies and television shows come to meet their fans. Many people also wear costumes to look like their favorite characters. Dressing in such clothing is often called “cosplay.” Penrod says fans of almost everything are welcome. "I think it’s the sense of community. … It’s a chance to be around people who have similar interests and people who really understand them and get them. It’s a place to celebrate the things that you’re passionate about." Penrod chose to move the convention to the Mt. Vernon Convention Center in Washington, DC in 2013. He hoped the larger space would bring more people. In 2015, over 40,000 people attended Awesome Con. The number of people attending events like this shows how popular this kind of media is. Penrod suggests that any new television show or movie can succeed or fail because of the attention fans give. He also says more and more people are accepting nerdy culture. "I think nerdy is kind of becoming the new normal." I’m Pete Musto. Patrick Merentie reported and wrote this story for VOA Learning English. Pete Musto produced the video. George Grow was the editor. Now it’s your turn. What kinds of media do you like? Are there similar types of conventions that celebrate nerdy things in your country? Let us know in the comments section or on our Facebook page. ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story superheroes – n. a fictional character who has amazing powers such as the ability to fly character(s) – n. a person who appears in a story, book, play, movie, or television show entertainment – n. amusement or pleasure that comes from watching a performer, playing a game science fiction – n. stories about how people and societies are affected by imaginary scientific developments in the future comic book – n. a magazine that is made up of a series of comic strips fantasy – n. a book or movie that tells a story about things that happen in an imaginary world nerdy – adj.  relating to interest in non-traditional subjects or behaving awkwardly around other people and usually has non-traditional clothes or hair obsession – n. a state in which someone thinks about someone or something constantly or frequently especially in a way that is not normal exhilarating – adj. causing someone to feel very happy and excited video game(s) – n. an electronic game in which players control images on a television or computer screen wrestling – n. a sport in which two people try to throw, force, or pin each other to the ground costume(s) – n. the clothes that are worn by someone such as an actor who is trying to look like a different person or thing passionate – adj. having, showing, or expressing strong emotions or beliefs

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Siri Comes to Mac Computers

Earlier this month, Apple announced new technology at its yearly Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). In the last Personal Technology report, we talked about the changes to Apple’s iPhone and iPad operating system. Today we will discuss changes for Mac computers, Apple TV and Apple Watch. We will also report on other news from Apple at the WWDC. OS X Operating System for Mac Computers The operating system for Mac computers is getting an update and a new name. Mac OS X is gone. Now it is called macOS. This year’s version of the operating system is called Sierra. Continuity The Mac computer will connect more with other Apple devices so tasks can be shared among devices. No more need for passwords to unlock your Mac. Auto Unlock will let you log into your Mac computer from your Apple Watch.   Universal Clipboard will let you cut or copy on one device and paste it onto another. This works for text, video and images. iCloud Drive will let users access their Mac desktop from another Mac computer and their iPhone. A new picture-in-picture feature will let users watch a video in one window and have another window open on a Mac. The video can be dragged to any size and position. Siri, Apple's voice assistant, is coming to Mac computers. Click the Siri button and ask it to find files, answer questions, play music, and send messages. Sierra macOS will be available for public testing in July. You can sign up at beta.apple.com to be a tester. The final version will be available as a free upgrade in the fall.   WatchOS Owners of Apple Watch will get the Watch OS 3 update to make the watch apps work faster. Watch OS 3 is set for release in the fall. Apps will now open from the Watch, without having to connect with an iPhone. Apps will load immediately, with information available when the app opens. Favorite apps will be stored in the Watch’s memory, and will update in the background to give current information when those apps are opened. Users will also be able to write on the screen with a new feature called Scribble. Write letters and they will be changed to typeface. Scribble works in English and Chinese. New watch faces were announced at the WWDC. Changing watch faces will be easier. A new SOS feature lets users place an emergency call from the Watch by pressing and holding the side button. The Watch will recognize where the user is and call the right number for that country. So it will call 911 for emergency services in the US, 999 in Hong Kong, and so on. Watch OS 3 also has a relaxation feature. The Breathe app supports deep breathing exercises. Users can set the amount of time they want to do the breathing exercises. The Watch can tap the user to help set a breathing speed. The app also shows the user’s heart rate. Wheelchair users will be able to measure their activity with the Apple Watch. Apple worked with experts to track activity of wheelchair users. Reminders will be changed to Time to Roll instead of Time to Stand.   tvOS Operating System for Apple TV Apple TV will get an update to its operating system this fall. Past versions of Apple TV had 80 channels, but the latest version has over 1300 channels and 6000 apps. Siri will search across apps for movies, TV shows and YouTube videos. tvOS will permit users to sign in once instead of signing in for each paid subscription app. Single sign-on also shows all of the apps available on Apple TV. The Remote app on the iPhone will be able to have all features that the Apple TV remote has, including Siri. You will be able to use your iPhone as a game controller.   Swift Playgrounds Swift, a coding language for apps that run on Apple devices, will be easier to learn with a new app from Apple: Swift Playgrounds. This app is designed for iPad and helps people learn to write code with Swift.             I’m Marsha James Carolyn Mohr wrote this report for VOA Learning English. Caty Weaver was the editor. Are you interested in the updates to Apple operating systems? Which features are you looking forward to most? Are there any features that you would have liked that were not announced? Share your thoughts in the Comments Section below or on our Facebook page.   Words in This Story operating system - n.  the main program in a computer that controls the way the computer works and makes it possible for other programs to function task - n. a piece of work that has been given to someone : a job for someone to do text - n. data handled by a computer, cell phone, etc., that is mostly in the form of words access - v. to open or load (a computer file, an Internet site, etc.) drag - v. to move (items on a computer screen) by using a computer mouse code - v.  to change (information) into a set of letters, numbers, or symbols that can be read by a computer  

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Turkey Attack Points to Growing Problem of Terrorism

  The suicide attack in Istanbul that killed at least 41 people is the latest in a series of deadly terrorism strikes to hit Turkey. Tuesday’s attack at Ataturk International Airport also wounded more than 200 people. Istanbul’s governor said at least 10 of those killed were foreigners. Three suicide bombers entered the airport’s international arrival area and began shooting people before setting off explosives. Officials announced Wednesday that the airport had fully reopened. Turkish Airlines said it restarted all operations and flights resumed between the United States and Istanbul. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack. But, Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said early evidence suggested that it was the Islamic State group. He called the attack “cowardly” and promised to keep up Turkey’s fight against extremism. “Unity will be the best answer to terrorists,” he said. The Islamic State group was blamed for two suicide bombings in Istanbul earlier this year that targeted foreign tourists. Many people have been killed in Ankara and Istanbul in bombings carried out by both Islamic State and Kurdish rebels. The Kurdish rebel group PKK has been known to carry out suicide bombings. However, it usually targets government security forces. This month the group attacked a police bus, killing 11 people. The recent attacks underscore the sharp increase in recent terrorist bombings in Turkey that have killed hundreds. Some of the attacks have been blamed on the PKK, while others have been attributed to Islamic State. Terrorism experts say Islamic State is believed to have many fighters who are Turkish nationals. They also suggested that recent Islamic State defeats in Iraq may have led to Tuesday’s airport attack. The Institute for the Study of War predicted an increase in Islamic State attacks in Turkey during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, which ends July 5. The institute said Islamic State appears to be using Turkey to help develop a larger plan in the area. “ISIS will likely select targets in neighboring states that relieve pressure from the group in Syria while setting conditions for future expansion in those states,” the organization wrote. “Targets that serve this dual purpose include foreign tourists, state security forces, and U.S. military elements in Turkey and Jordan.” Syria conflict Another regional issue affecting terrorism in Turkey is Syria’s civil war. Armed groups roam along both sides of the 804-kilometer Turkey-Syria border. Turkey has been accused of permitting foreign fighters to cross the border to join groups like the Islamic State. The civil war has also led to an estimated 2.5 million Syrians now living in Turkey. This has strained government resources and caused anger among the Turkish population. Turkey was once seen as a bastion of stability in the area, with a strong economy and tourist industry. But last year, tourist arrivals fell by one-third. The increase in terror has led to increasing uncertainty about Turkey’s economic future and its national security.      I’m Jonathan Evans. Bryan Lynn adapted this story for Learning English based on reporting from Sharon Behn of VOA, with additional reports from VOANews.com and the Associated Press. Mario Ritter was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section, and visit our Facebook page. ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   cowardly – adj. afraid in a way that makes you unable to do what is right or expected; lacking courage underscore – v. to emphasize or show the importance of attribute – v. considered to be caused by something roam – v. move about or travel over a wide area bastion – n. a place or system in which something continues to survive stability – n. the ​quality or state of something that is not easily changed​ or likely to change  

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1300 UTC Newscast in English

From Washington, this is VOA News. I’m Marti Johnson reporting. European Union leaders are meeting for a second day in Brussels on Britain’s pending departure from the EU. British Prime Minister David Cameron met with the leaders for the first time Tuesday since British voters chose to quit the European Union, as Lisa Bryant reports for VOA. “The mood was somber in Brussels. This is likely the last EU summit for British Prime Minister David Cameron, who vowed to step down after Britons voted to exit the European Union last week. He said that despite sadness and regret, the meeting was constructive.” “Britain should seek and Europe should seek the closest possible relations as Britain leaves the EU. Close relations over trade, over cooperation, over security...” “But EU leaders sent their own message to Britain, as French President Francois Hollande pointed out.” “He said that if Britain wants to stay in the single market, it has to pay the price, including accepting the free movement of people. Lisa Bryant for VOA News, Paris.” Istanbul has fully reopened Ataturk International Airport, after Tuesday's suicide attack that killed 41 people, and injured another 140. Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildrim says, "Our airport has been opened to flights and departures since 2:20 a.m. (local time) on..."  Flights to the U.S. have also reopened, and passengers arriving in New York were frightened. “I can’t even fly any more. I’m like so scared…so everybody in the flight the same way. I mean it’s just disbelief. I mean we’re so lucky we got away with it (flying out), it looks like…” It was 10pm local time when two attackers with automatic weapons opened fire at a security checkpoint and blew themselves up. A third bomber detonated in a parking lot. This is VOA.   We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section.

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New Benghazi Report Blames US Officials, Military

  A new report about the attack on a U.S. diplomatic post in Benghazi, Libya, criticizes the United States government. The report says the Obama administration, as well as military and intelligence agencies, did not provide enough security to prevent the violence. The US House of representatives Select Committee on Benghazi released the 800-page report Tuesday. The September 11, 2012, terrorist attack killed four Americans, including U.S. Ambassador to Libya Chris Stevens. The Benghazi attack has been officially investigated at least 10 times. The latest investigation lasted two years and cost $7 million.  The chairman of the committee, Republican Representative Trey Gowdy, spoke to reporters about the report’s findings. He said the investigation found a clear disconnect between the violence there and what officials thought was happening. Gowdy said American officials had “real time information but yet somehow they thought the fighting had subsided.” The report criticized the U.S. military for not sending resources to help protect diplomats in Benghazi. It said the military did not act although President Obama and then Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta had ordered action. Gowdy said, “Nothing was en route to Libya at the time the last two Americans were killed almost eight hours after the attacks began.” Military leaders have repeatedly said they did not have dependable intelligence on what was happening in Libya. They also said they did not have the resources to take action. The report blamed the Central Intelligence Agency for missing warning signs about the threat of violence in Libya. It also blamed the CIA for writing false intelligence reports after the attack. It criticized Obama administration officials for their early reaction to the attack. It also criticized them for how they later explained the events to the American people. Gowdy accused the State Department, the military and the CIA of purposeful and “shameful” delay of the investigation. He said the agencies refused to provide or delayed providing all requested records to the committee. Hillary Clinton was serving as Secretary of State at the time of the attack. Last October, she answered questions before the Benghazi committee for 11 hours during a televised hearing. The report does not contain any new evidence against Clinton, who is now the presumptive 2016 Democratic presidential nominee. She has accused the Republican-led committee of acting for political reasons. On Tuesday, Clinton’s campaign said the new report had “not found anything to contradict the conclusions of the multiple, earlier investigations.” Gowdy said his report’s conclusion was not aimed at Clinton. But two Republican committee members said they did not think the report fully dealt with Clinton’s part in the events. Representatives Jim Jordan and Mike Pompeo released their own statements on the findings. Pompeo called Clinton's actions after the attacks “morally reprehensible.” He and Jordan said her public comments about the attacks were very different from her private comments to family members and diplomats. Democratic Party members on the committee released their own report Monday. That report concluded that the State Department’s security measures were “woefully inadequate” on the night of the attack. But it said former Secretary of State Clinton “never personally denied any requests for additional security in Benghazi.” It also said that the military could not have done anything differently on the night of the attacks that would have saved the four Americans killed in Benghazi.  The report found that the nearest U.S. military troops to Benghazi were across the Mediterranean Sea in Italy. It argued that they could not have reached Libya in time to rescue the diplomats. It also found that Clinton was actively "engaged" in dealing with the attack as it was happening. I’m Caty Weaver. Bryan Lynn wrote this story for Learning English, based on additional reports from VOANews.com, the Associated Press and Reuters. Caty Weaver was the editor. What's your opinion about the Benghazi investigation? Let us know in the Comments or on our Facebook page. ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   en route – adv. on the way, during a journey shameful – adj. worthy of causing shame or disgrace contradict – v. to deny or disagree with what someone else says reprehensible – adj. bad, deserving very strong criticism woefully – adv. very badly inadequate – adj. not having the required quality or quantity engaged – adj. involved in meaningful contact with  

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Suicide Bombers Attack Istanbul’s Ataturk Airport

EDITOR'S NOTE: This is a developing story. We will post an audio file shortly.   Suicide bombers at Istanbul’s Ataturk international airport killed at least 28 people late Tuesday, Turkish officials said. Officials said at least 60 people were wounded. There was no immediate claim of responsibility. Turkish state television reported that one explosion happened at a control point at an entry to the international arrival area. One witness told VOA's Turkish Service that, "there were two small explosions and then a large one. People scattered everywhere. They didn't know where to go. We were waiting for my sister, but couldn't find her.  We're [still] waiting." Witnesses said police shot at the suspects after one attacker opened fire with a gun. All flights at Ataturk were suspended after the attack. Officials later permitted incoming flights that were in holding patterns over the city to land at the airport. All other incoming flights were sent to other cities. Ataturk is one of the largest and busiest airports in Europe. Istanbul has been the target of several terror attacks this year. Earlier this month, a car bombing of a police bus killed 11 people.   Lou Lorscheider reported this story for VOA News. Ashley Thompson adapted it for VOA Learning English. Mario Ritter was the editor. _____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   scattered – v. to separate and go in different directions holding pattern – n. a flight path that can be repeated as an airplane waits to land

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China’s Economic Slowdown Could Have Big Effect on Southeast Asia

  For Southeast Asia, the slowdown of China’s economy may have a bigger economic impact than the British vote to leave the European Union. China’s government reported the country’s economy expanded at 6.7 percent in the first three months of this year. That is high compared to many countries. However, it is the lowest increase of its Gross Domestic Product, or GDP, since early 2009. GDP is a measure of the monetary value of all goods and services produced in a country. Joseph Incalcaterra is an economist with the British bank HSBC. He has studied economic growth in Asia from 2000 to 2014. He says Chinese trade became more and more important in the area during those years. Yet, he notes that China’s slowing economy is, in his words, “weighing down exports in the rest of the region.” Estimates place the value of Southeast Asia’s economies at $2.6 trillion dollars. However, growth has slowed in seven of the 10 members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Indonesia has been most affected, at least partly because it exports commodities such as raw materials to China. However, Southeast Asia’s relatively young population and increasing wealth keep growth possible, although its exports to China are slowing. Earlier this year, the Asian Development Bank predicted economic growth of 4.5 percent for this year and 4.8 percent for 2017 for the area. Le Hong Hiep is with the Singapore-based research group ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute. He said he has not seen a lot of impact from China’s economic slowdown in Vietnam. He said last year, Vietnam’s exports to China grew by almost 15 percent. He said those exports which are mainly raw materials and agricultural products are less affected by a slowing economy. Southeast Asian countries such as the Philippines, Myanmar, Vietnam and Laos have had changes in political leadership recently. But that has not stopped the flow of foreign investment to the area. Not only China, but India, Russia and the United States have been increasing investment in the area. Trade between the U.S. and Vietnam increased to $45 billion in 2015. In addition to existing trade, U.S. President Barack Obama has pushed for the Trans Pacific Partnership trade agreement. The trade deal includes 12 Pacific nations. Four of those countries, Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam, are in Southeast Asia. Supporters say the deal counterbalances China’s influence in the area’s economy. Brian Eyler is deputy director of the Stimson Center’s Southeast Asia Program. He thinks U.S. investment in the area will continue to increase. He says, “We see the U.S. investing more in Southeast Asia, training more, restructuring its diplomatic architecture, to better integrate with Southeast Asia.” Eyler said India and Russia are seeking to do the same. He noted that China’s slowdown leaves roads, ports and other public systems underused. In his words, “No one wants to see that go to waste.” I’m Dorothy Gundy. Shannon Van Sant reported this story for VOA News. Mario Ritter adapted it for VOA Learning English. Caty Weaver was the editor. _____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   impact – n. a notable result, a powerful effect monetary – adj. of or relating to the money in a country's economy commodity – n. something that is bought and sold counterbalance – v. to limit or balance out, having an opposite but equal effect architecture – n. a structure, something that is built up integrate – v. to bring together into a whole sides or groups that were not together before

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أفضل فيلم وثائقي يشرح حياة الرسول صل الله عليه وسلم منذ ولادتة الى وفاتة

June 28, 2016

A look at the best news photos from around the world.

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Obama’s Immigration Order Blocked by Supreme Court

President Barack Obama is again urging the United States Congress to act on immigration. Obama made his latest appeal after the nation’s highest court failed to support his order protecting up to 5 million undocumented immigrants from deportation. The Supreme Court released that order last week. The court was split on the issue, with four members agreeing with the president and four others opposed. The ruling keeps in place a lower court decision that blocked the immigration order. The president called the Supreme Court ruling, “heartbreaking.”  “I have pushed to the limits of my executive order,” he said. “We now have to have Congress act.” But congressional action seems unlikely before Obama leaves office in January. “We know there isn’t much left with this Congress,” said Norm Ornstein, a specialist on U.S. politics at the American Enterprise Institute. Orenstein said the ruling is bad news for the president because he had hoped to make immigration reform an important part of his legacy. Texas and 25 other states had challenged Obama’s 2015 executive order. It not only protected five million undocumented immigrants from being expelled, but let them have work permits. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton said the Supreme Court did the right thing. The court, he said, “Keeps in place what we have maintained from the very start: one person, even a president, cannot unilaterally change the law.” The ruling last week is not expected to lead to mass deportations. Obama says the Department of Homeland Security would continue its long established policy. That means moving slowly on deporting parents of children who are in the United States legally. But those adults would not be given work permits, making it harder for them to find employment. Businessman Donald Trump is likely to win the presidential nomination of the Republican Party. Trump has said he would deport all 11 million undocumented immigrants in the United States. But Senator Marco Rubio, a Republican who lost to Trump in nominating events, said that will not happen -- even if Trump is elected. “The American people wouldn't stand for it,” Rubio, a Florida senator, told CBS television. Early in Obama’s second term, the U.S. Senate approved a reform in immigration policy that had the president’s support. But the House of Representatives refused to consider the bill. The Supreme Court divided 4-4 on his executive order on immigration because it does not have a ninth justice to break ties. The Republican-led Senate has refused to vote on Democrat Obama’s choice to replace Justice Antonin Scalia. Scalia died in February. Obama nominated U.S. Appeals Court Judge Merrick Garland in March. Had the Senate confirmed Garland, it is likely the Supreme Court would have overturned lower court rulings blocking Obama’s immigration order. American Immigration Lawyers Association President Victor Nieblas said the Supreme Court’s decision continues uncertainty for millions of undocumented immigrants. The court, he said, denied parents of United States citizens and students to seek “refuge and protection from a dysfunctional immigration system.” Roy Beck is head of a group called NumbersUSA, which wants more limits on immigration. Beck said the Supreme Court’s decision “means that immigration policy, including the power to issue work permits, still belongs to the people through their elected officials in Congress.” I’m Bruce Alpert.   Mary Alice Salinas reported on this story for VOANews.com. Bruce Alpert adapted her report for Learning English. George Grow was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section and share your views on our Facebook Page. ____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   deportation – n. to be removed from a country for violation of its immigration laws challenge – v. to say or show that something may not be true, correct, or legal maintain – v. to continue doing something or taking the same position unilaterally – adv. acting alone refuge – n. shelter or protection from danger or trouble dysfunctional – adj.  unable to function in a normal way  

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UN Builds Legal Case Against North Korean Leadership

  The United Nations is continuing to build legal cases against North Korea’s leadership for crimes against humanity. UN officials are gathering statements and other evidence from more than 30,000 North Korean defectors to support the cases. Human rights activists and UN representatives met in Seoul on Monday to discuss the latest developments in the investigation. Signe Poulsen represents the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in Seoul. She said the investigation is continuing, but it takes time and is hard to prepare a case based on information from defectors alone.    “Verification is extremely difficult and it is an ongoing challenge, and I think something we have to be quite humble about because we don’t have access at the ground level.” The investigators are trying to collect evidence linking North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and other high-level officials to crimes against humanity. In 2014, a UN Commission of Inquiry called on the UN to refer North Korea’s leadership to the International Criminal Court. The inquiry report documented at least 120,000 political prisoners inside the country. It also linked North Korean officials to atrocities including “extermination, murder, enslavement, torture, imprisonment, rape, forced abortions and other sexual violence.” The UN General Assembly voted in support of the Commission of Inquiry’s call for action. But the measure was never passed in the Security Council, where North Korea’s allies China and Russia would likely veto it.      The Security Council ordered new sanctions on North Korea earlier this year for carrying out a nuclear test and launching a long-range rocket. Those measures are not directly linked to the international concerns about the country’s human rights record. Marzuki Darusman is the UN Special Rapporteur on North Korea. He said UN officials and human rights groups continue to build legal cases against North Korean officials. But he said those cases may never be brought unless the government of Kim Jong Un collapses someday. “That is quite unique in that sense, compared to the general practice where justice seeking is then implemented after the big bang, so called,” he said.   UN investigators believe Kim should ultimately be held responsible for the atrocities committed in North Korea. They say they have found orders and handwritten notes directly connecting him to some crimes. Greg Scarlatoiu with Human Rights North Korea said low-level officials in state security agencies also should be held responsible. “We know those agencies, we know the hierarchy within those agencies and we even have many lists of names of officials who are still there, who have been holding positions at these agencies.” But North Korea expert Remko Breuker, from Leiden University in the Netherlands, disagrees. “Where does accountability stop? When do people have no other choice than to obey? This is ideally something I think that should be left to North Koreans to decide.” UN officials and activists working to build a case against the North Korean leadership know that no legal action is likely to happen anytime soon. But they remain hopeful that one day the political environment will change to make prosecutions possible.   I’m Bryan Lynn. Brian Padden reported this story for VOANews.com. Bryan Lynn adapted his report for Learning English. George Grow was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section, and visit our Facebook page. ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   defector – n. person who abandons their country for another one verification – n. the process of establishing whether something is true or not humble – adj. not proud; not thinking of yourself as better than others atrocity – n. a very cruel or terrible act extermination – n. to completely destroy or kill hierarchy – n. a system that places people or things in difference levels and importance prosecution – n. the act of holding a trial against a person accused of a crime to establish guilt or innocence  

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Lady Gaga, Dalai Lama Meeting Angers China

This is What’s Trending Today… A meeting between the Dalai Lama and singer Lady Gaga has angered the Chinese government and Chinese citizens. The exiled Tibetan spiritual leader was at the U.S. Conference of Mayors in the state of Indiana when he met Lady Gaga. The two took part in a discussion on Sunday about human rights, kindness, and compassion. Lady Gaga posted photos and videos on social media of herself with the Dalai Lama. Chinese social media users were not happy. Many quickly expressed their anger over the meeting. Lady Gaga is hugely popular in the country, but the Dalai Lama is seen by the Chinese government as a dangerous separatist. According to the BBC, one Chinese Weibo user wrote that the meeting shows that Lady Gaga has not “considered her Chinese fans.” Another wrote, “she has given up on the Chinese market.” The Chinese government was not happy, either. It warned the international community of the Dalai Lama’s dangerous motives. China’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said in a news briefing Monday that “the purpose of [The Dalai Lama’s] visits and activities in other countries is just to promote his proposal for Tibetan independence.” The Dalai Lama fled to India in 1959 after a failed uprising against the Chinese government. The Dalai Lama has asked for more autonomy – or power to self-govern – for Tibet. Talks between the Dalai Lama and China’s government stopped in 2010. Many musicians have had to cancel concerts in China after meeting with or supporting the Tibetan spiritual leader, including Selena Gomez, Bjork, and Maroon 5. Several media reports this week say the Chinese government plans to ban Lady Gaga’s music as a result of the meeting. It would not be the first time. China banned Lady Gaga in 2011. Its Cultural Ministry said at the time that the singer damaged “the nation’s cultural security.” China lifted its Lady Gaga ban in 2014.   ​ And that’s What’s Trending Today.  _______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story    exile – n. a situation in which you are forced to leave your country or home and go to live in a foreign country compassion – n. a feeling of wanting to help someone who is sick, hungry, in trouble, etc​. spokesman – n. someone who speaks for or represents a person, company or a government concert – n. a public performance of music uprising – n. a violent effort by people to change the government or leader of a country autonomy – n. the power or right of a country or group to govern itself

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How America Elects: Convention Rules

How America Elects: Convention Rules

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June 27, 2016

A look at the best news photos from around the world.

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Supreme Court Rejects Texas Abortion Law

  The Supreme Court ruled Monday that Texas went too far in regulating a woman’s ability to end a pregnancy. Justice Stephen Breyer wrote the opinion for the 5-3 majority. He said the Texas law is not medically necessary, and unconstitutionally limited a woman’s right to an abortion. Abortion is a medical procedure used to end a pregnancy. The Supreme Court justices were deciding whether a 2013 Texas law was constitutional. The law requires doctors who perform abortions to have admitting privileges at hospitals located near their clinics. It also required abortion clinics to meet surgical requirements for patients similar to those for patients at hospitals. Breyer said those requirements provide few, if any, improvements for women’s health. But, he said they make it harder for women to get abortions. In 1973, the Supreme Court ruled that women have a right to decide to end a pregnancy through abortion. The Center for Reproductive Rights says the ruling will likely put an end to laws in nine other states that are similar to the Texas law. Wisconsin, Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, and Missouri have similar laws to the one in Texas. Kansas, Oklahoma, North Dakota and Florida also have such laws. The Supreme Court ruled on another highly disputed case related to guns on Monday. The court said that people convicted of domestic abuse, even for a lesser criminal charge, or misdemeanor, can be barred from owning guns.  Domestic abuse is when someone is violent toward a wife or husband, or other partner. Two men had disputed the ban on guns, saying they had hit a romantic partner in an argument, not in a pre-planned attack. Justice Elena Kagan wrote the opinion for the 6-2 majority. She rejected the men’s argument. “A person who assaults another recklessly uses force, no less than one who carries out that same action knowingly or intentionally,” Kagan wrote. And in another well-known case, the Supreme Court threw out the conviction of former Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell. McDonnell was found guilty of accepting gifts from a businessman who sought his help selling his product. The gifts, which included a Rolex watch, were worth more than $175,000.   Chief Justice John Roberts said that while McDonnell’s actions are “distasteful,” the federal government went too far in building a bribery case. The court’s ruling was 8-0. But it was the abortion ruling that got the most attention of the three major decisions released Monday. The three rulings came as the Supreme Court neared the end of its 2015-2016 term. Three justices, Chief Justice John Roberts, and Justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas, opposed the majority ruling against the Texas abortion law. They released what is called a dissent – meaning they disagreed with the decision of the majority. Thomas quoted from an earlier written statement by the late Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia. Scalia wrote that the some justices “bend the rules when any effort to limit abortion. Or even to speak in opposition to abortion, is at issue.” Scalia died in February. He has not been replaced on the Supreme Court. That has left the court with only eight of its regular nine judges. Lawyers for Texas abortion clinics brought the abortion case. They said the 2013 Texas law had reduced the number of abortion clinics from 40 to about half of that in the state. The number would drop to 10 if the law is allowed to fully take effect, the lawyers said. That would require Texas women seeking abortions to travel long distances to their nearest abortion centers. “Without question, today's ruling is a game changer in what has been an unrelenting assault on women's rights across the country,” said Nancy Northup. She is president of the Center for Reproductive Rights. Texas Governor Gregg Abbott said the Supreme Court ruling “subjects more innocent life to being lost.” Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton said the Supreme Court “has taken the ability to protect women’s health out of the hands of Texas citizens and their duly-elected representatives.” I’m John Russell.   Ken Bredemeier reported on this story for VOA News. Bruce Alpert adapted this story for Learning English. Mario Ritter was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section and share your views on our Facebook Page. _______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   regulate – v. to make rules or laws that control something privilege – n. a right or benefit that is given to some people and not to others clinics surgical – adj. of or relating to the process of performing a medical operation assault – n. to physically attack someone recklessly – adv. not showing proper concern about the possible bad results of your actions intentionally – adv. to do something on purpose or as planned bend the rules – idiomatic phrase. to not be strict or exact about following a rule unrelenting – adj. not slowing down, stopping, or growing weaker  

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Iraq Declares Fallujah Free of Islamic State

Iraqi forces recaptured the city of Fallujah from Islamic State fighters after a month of fighting. On Sunday, Iraqi Lieutenant General Abdul-Wahab al-Saadi called Fallujah “fully liberated.” He also said the next step would be to retake Mosul. The destruction in Fallujah is extensive. Almost 85,000 people fled Fallujah and nearby areas to escape the fighting. Many of the displaced are without shelter. The summer temperatures are 45 degrees Celsius or higher. Powerful sandstorms are also a danger. Many citizens of Fallujah took shelter at a health center near the city. It is lacking water supplies and human waste systems. Center Director Ahmed Basel said, “We have too many people. There are no more spaces in the camps.  Every five meters you find a family.” Women and children make up most of the population at refugee camps in Iraq. Males over the age of 14 were separated from their families as they fled Fallujah. United Nations refugee agency workers met with Iraqi families. The UNHCR said those talks confirmed reports that almost all families are missing several family members. U.S.-led coalition air strikes supported Iraqi forces in the battles for Fallujah. Shi’ite militias also assisted Iraqi forces on the ground. There are no clear reports of deaths and injuries on either side of the fighting. Iraqi officials warned civilians against returning to their homes although conditions in the camps are bad. The officials said some parts of Fallujah are unsafe. There is concern that similar problems of displacement will take place in a battle for Mosul. Islamic State forces have occupied the city since June 2014. Its population is estimated at 2.5 million. Mosul is Iraq’s second largest city. Aid agencies are worried that more Iraqis will lose their homes. Close to 600,000 Mosul-area civilians may be displaced during the fight for the city. Those agencies told VOA the displacement will be a disaster many times the size of the current situation outside Fallujah. Iraqi Kurdish military commanders are saying that Mosul will be a more difficult fight than Fallujah. They say it will require a political-military agreement among all groups involved.  For example, Kurdish commanders are warning against permitting Shi’ite militias to take part in the offensive in the Sunni majority area. I’m Caty Weaver.   Jim Dresbach adapted this story from several VOA News reports. Caty Weaver 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   liberate – v. to free someone or something from being controlled by another person or group displacement – n. the act of forcing people or animals to leave the area where they live

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British EU Vote Raises Many Questions

British officials are dealing with international reaction to Britain’s decision to leave the European Union. British finance minister George Osborne spoke publicly on Monday for the first time since the British vote last week. Osborne tried to calm financial markets. He said the British economy remains strong and that Britain “remains open for business.” He added that Britain’s financial system was in a good position to support the country. “Britain’s financial system will help our country deal with any shocks and dampen them not contribute to those shocks or make them worse.” The vote to leave the EU has led to sharp drops in stock prices around the world. It also has fueled unrest on international currency exchanges. Britain’s money, the pound, has decreased in value on currency exchanges around the world. The pound has dropped to its lowest level in 30 years. Monday, a weaker pound and euro helped push China’s money, the yuan, to its lowest exchange value against the American dollar in more than five years. In Japan, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe called for a cooperative effort among major economies to ease financial problems. “To the Bank of Japan,” he said, “I’d like to ask it to closely cooperate with central banks of the other G7 countries to take necessary steps for the economy and financial markets.” Japanese officials and business leaders met Monday to discuss economic issues related to the British vote. Finance minister Taro Aso appealed to other financial officials to watch currency markets closely. The Japanese yen has gained more than 15 percent in exchange value to the dollar since the beginning of the year. This sharp rise hurts Japanese exports, making them more costly and less competitive with other products. It also has led some observers to question whether Japan will break its promise to the Group of 7 industrialized countries. Japanese leaders have said they would not intervene in money markets to reduce the yen’s exchange value. In Europe, French Finance Minister Michel Sapin called on Britain to move quickly to carry out plans to leave the European Union. German Chancellor Angela Merkel said any British withdrawal from the EU should be a civil and organized one. British officials say 72 percent of voters marked a ballot in the nationwide referendum. About 52 percent of Britons voted to leave the EU. The government must put into place Article 50 of the EU treaty in order to start an official exit, a process that could take up to two years. Overturning the referendum is still technically possible. The vote last week was a non-binding measure. The British government may or may not take action. However, experts say a second vote is unlikely. Leaders of the campaign to leave the EU are now facing strong criticism. Opponents of leaving say, for example, that Conservative politician Boris Johnson did not have a plan to deal with the political and financial unrest that has followed the vote. Johnson wrote in The Daily Telegraph newspaper that supporters of remaining in the EU have made too much of the vote’s bad consequences. Prime Minister David Cameron announced plans to resign after the referendum. He said the country needed, in his words, “fresh leadership” to go in the direction of leaving Europe. Yet the referendum showed deep divisions in Britain. Scotland, Northern Ireland and London all supported remaining in the EU, while other parts of the country supported leaving. In Scotland, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said another popular vote on independence from Britain was now “highly likely.” I’m Mario Ritter. This story is based on reports from VOA reporters Luis Ramirez, Victor Beattie, and Steve Herman. Mario Ritter adapted it for Learning English. George Grow was the editor. ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   consequences – n. results of an action or event dampen – v. to reduce intensity, to make something less strong contribute – v. to give, to provide something referendum – n. a direct vote usually on a single law or issue currency – adj. of or related to money exit – n. withdrawal; separation non-binding – adj. having no legal force

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Exercise Can Protect Against Two Major Diseases

  From VOA Learning English, this is the Health & Lifestyle report. We all know that exercise keeps us healthy. But two new studies get more specific. They look at how exercise may lower the risk of two major causes of death – cancer and stroke. One study says exercise may lower the risk for 13 types of cancer. Another says that middle-aged people can reduce their chance of having a stroke by exercising. First let’s talk about cancer. Steven Moore of the National Cancer Institute led a team of researchers to study more than 1.4 million people. The study looked at participants in 12 U.S. and European groups. These people reported on their physical activity between 1987 and 2004. The researchers looked at the occurrence of 26 kinds of cancer among the participants during, on average, the next 11 years. Many participants reported walking, running and swimming. The researchers took into account how long they exercised per week, what they ate, if they were obese and if they smoked. In an interview with NBC News, Moore explains that exercise "can help people reduce their risk of heart disease. It can reduce the risk of diabetes.” It helps you live longer. And now, he adds, it appears that it may reduce the risks of some cancers." Moore and his team found that exercise lowered the risk of developing: cancer of the esophagus by 42 percent liver cancer by 27 percent lung cancer by 26 percent and breast cancer by 10 percent. Exercise also lowered the risk of a specific type of leukemia by 20 percent. Moore told NBC that there are some possible explanations for the findings. First, exercise can lower hormone levels like estrogen. Lower levels of estrogen would lower the risk of breast and endometrial cancers. He adds that exercise helps maintain insulin and that may lower overall inflammation in the body. However, one type of cancer puzzled the researchers. They found that exercise increased the chance of developing prostate cancer by five percent. But they wrote that they could not explain the connection. The researchers also found that people who did heavier exercises had a slightly higher rate of skin cancer. This, they say, could be from more sun exposure. Now, how exercise affects strokes. The more fit a person is in middle age, the less likely he or she will have a crippling stroke after age 65. This is the result of a new study by the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. Doctors studied 20,000 men and women between the ages of 45 and 50. They found that those who were most fit from moderate to vigorous exercise had a 37 percent lower risk of a stroke than those who were least fit. They say the lowered risk of a future stroke was present even when the subjects had other risk factors. These factors include high blood pressure and type-2 diabetes. The researchers of this study say they want doctors to not ignore low levels of exercise and fitness as risk factors for a stroke. This study was published in the latest issue of the medical journal called Stroke. I’m Anna Matteo.   VOA News reported this story. Anna Matteo adapted it for Learning English. Hai Do was the editor. ______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   esophagus – n. medical : the tube that leads from the mouth through the throat to the stomach liver – n. a large organ of the body that produces bile and cleans the blood lung – n. either one of the two organs that people and animals use to breathe air breast – n. the front part of a person's body between the neck and the stomach leukemia – n. medical : a very serious disease in which the body forms too many white blood cells participant – n. a person who is involved in an activity or event : a person who participates in an activity or event took into account – ​idiomatic phrase. to consider something endometrial – adj. the mucous membrane lining the uterus insulin – n. a substance that your body makes and uses to turn sugar into energy inflammation – n. a condition in which a part of your body becomes red, swollen, and painful puzzled – adj. feeling or showing confusion because something is difficult to understand fit – adj. physically healthy and strong cripple – v. to cause (a person or animal) to be unable to move or walk normally factors – n. something that helps produce or influence a result : one of the things that cause something to happen

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Kenya Hosts Refugee Olympic Athletes

When athletes from around the world march in the opening ceremony of the 2016 Olympic Games, one team will walk into the stadium without a country flag. The team will be carrying the Olympic flag, instead. They are the team of refugees. The International Olympic Committee announced in March that it would sponsor the first-ever Olympic refugee team. It named 10 athletes to the team in June. The athletes are from Syria, South Sudan, Ethiopia and the Democratic Republic of Congo. They will compete in the swimming, running and judo events at the Olympic Games, which start on August 5 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The IOC says it hopes the 10 athletes can be a “symbol of hope” for refugees worldwide, as well as a reminder of the refugee crisis. Five of the refugee Olympic athletes are runners from South Sudan. They are training in Kenya. Rose Nathike Lokonyen is one of the team members. She was just four years old when her family left South Sudan. Now, she is 23. She and her family lived at a refugee camp in Kenya for 16 years. She says she was determined to participate in sports from young age. She remembers her father punishing her for playing soccer. She says he was “just looking after me.” Lokonyen thinks about her family often. She had to leave her younger brothers at the refugee camp in order to train for the Olympics. Lokonyen trains with the four other runners from South Sudan at a training center named after Tegla Loroupe, a famous Kenyan runner. She competed in the marathon and 10,000-meter races at many Olympics and world championships. Lokonyen runs for about two hours each day to train for the Olympics. She will compete in the 800-meter race in Rio. Jackson Kemboi is the manager of the training camp in Kenya. He says he is hopeful about the athletes’ chances in Rio. He describes them as “disciplined, and that is what’s needed most.” A recent story from the New York Times called the runners from South Sudan “promising” but “untested in top competition.” I’m Dan Friedell.   Lenny Ruvaga wrote this story for VOANews.com. Dan Friedell adapted it for Learning English. Ashley Thompson was the editor.   Will you follow the progress of the refugee Olympic team in Rio? We want to know. Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page. _______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   sponsor – n. a person or organization that pays the cost of an activity or event judo – n. a sport developed in Japan in which opponents attempt to throw or wrestle each other to the ground miss – v. to be without something promising – adj. likely to succeed or to be good : full of promise contend – v. to compete with someone or for something disciplined – adj. being able to do something by controlling your behavior stadium – n. a very large usually roofless building that has a large open area surrounded by many rows of seats and that is used for sports events, concerts, etc.

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Is Lionel Messi Leaving Argentina's Soccer Team?

  This is What’s Trending Today: The Chilean national soccer team won the Copa America tournament on Sunday night in the U.S. state of New Jersey. Chile defeated Argentina on penalty kicks after both teams played 120 minutes without scoring a goal. Chile made four penalty kicks. Argentina only made two. It was the second straight year Chile defeated Argentina on penalty kicks to win the Copa America tournament. Argentina’s star player, Lionel Messi, was one of the players who failed to make his penalty kick. As the Chilean players celebrated their victory, Messi held his head in his hands and cried. Many people say Messi is the best soccer player in the world. Perhaps, they say, he is the best ever. He is a five-time FIFA world player of the year with his club team, Barcelona. But his career is still missing one thing: a major tournament championship. The Argentine team lost to Germany in the finals of the 2014 World Cup. During the 2010 World Cup, the team lost to Germany in the quarterfinals. Messi did help Argentina win a team gold medal at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China. But that is not considered a major championship in men’s soccer. After Sunday night’s game, Messi said he might quit playing for Argentina’s national team. He would, however, continue playing with Barcelona. He told an Argentine television network, “the national team is over for me. It's been four finals, it's not meant for me. I tried. It was the thing I wanted the most, but I couldn't get it, so I think it's over.” Some people say Messi was only reacting to the loss, and that he will be back with the national team in time to play in the 2018 World Cup. Messi has scored 55 goals playing with Argentina. That is the most ever by an Argentinean soccer player. He scored five goals and assisted on four others during the Copa America tournament. Chile’s coach, Juan Antonio Pizzi, is from Argentina. After the championship game, the coach called Messi “the best player in history.” And, for 10 hours after the game, Messi and the hashtag #NoTeVayasLio were top trending topics on Twitter. The hashtag, in Spanish, means “Do not go, Lio.” One person from Egypt wrote: “Come back Leo. You are the best player in the all history. Don’t give up if you can do more.” And that’s What’s Trending Today.   Dan Friedell wrote this story for Learning English with information from VOANews.com. Ashley Thompson was the editor. Do you think Messi will come back and play again for Argentina? We want to know. Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page. _______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   coach – n. the person in charge of organizing and teaching a sports team penalty kick – n. in soccer when one player kicks the ball toward the goal with only the goalie playing defense. Used to decide the winner of a game if it has ended with both teams having the same score club – n. a sports team or organization tournament – n. a sports competition or series of contests that involves many players or teams and that usually continues for at least several days medal – n. a piece of metal often in the form of a coin with designs and words in honor of a special event, a person, or an achievement quit – v. to leave (a job, school, career, etc.) quarterfinals – n. one of four matches, games, or contests to decide the four people or teams that will continue playing in a competition (such as a tennis tournament

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Mass Killings Bring New Demands for Gun Control in America

  When U.S. Congressional Democrats demanded votes on gun control measures last week, Republican leaders turned off the cameras. The action is strangely similar to what congressional Democrats did in 2008 to answer a Republican protest over energy legislation. But in 2016, Democratic Party lawmakers had a new way to get their protest message out. They used cameras on mobile telephones to provide live video of their speeches on social media. That technology was not available in 2008. So, Americans could watch as Congressman John Lewis, a leader of the civil rights movement in the 1960s, spoke about the cost of gun violence. Focus on Orlando Shooting Lewis said that guns kill 30,000 people across the country each year. “We have lost too many of our children, our babies,” he said. “We have lost too many of our mothers and fathers.” The Georgia congressman and other Democratic lawmakers took turns speaking for nearly 26 hours straight in the House of Representatives. Many held up pictures of people killed by guns. Much of their focus was on the 49 people killed earlier this month at a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. It was the largest mass shooting in modern U.S. history. Since the Orlando shootings, congressional Democrats have stepped up efforts to pass gun control legislation. At the top of their list are bills to expand background checks. Supporters say such bills, when enacted, would stop people with a criminal record, or who support terrorism, from buying guns. The Democrats also want to ban the military-style weapons used in the Orlando attack and other recent mass shootings. They include the one last December in San Bernardino, California, the mass killing at a Connecticut elementary school in 2012, and the attack at a Colorado movie theater. Focus on Terrorism The Republican Party holds majorities in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. Republican lawmakers generally support the position of the National Rifle Association (NRA). The NRA argues against bills that would limit what the group says is a constitutional right to own guns. “Terrorism is the issue and defeating terrorism is our focus here in the House,” said House Speaker Paul Ryan of Wisconsin. “Let me be really clear. We are not going to take away the constitutional rights of law-abiding Americans.” Ryan called the Democratic protest a “political ploy.” Marc Morial is president of the National Urban League. He has supported gun control laws since the 1990s, when he was mayor of New Orleans, Louisiana. He was the first mayor to take legal action against gun manufacturers for deaths and injuries on the streets of New Orleans. But the case failed. Morial told VOA he is not surprised gun control bills continue to face strong opposition. It reflects the power of the NRA, he said. “It is also due to a strong gun culture among many Americans, who enjoy hunting and want guns for self-protection,” Morial said. Republican Offers Compromise Just hours after the House of Representatives protest ended Thursday, the Senate took up a gun control bill written by Maine Senator Susan Collins, a Republican, with moderate Democrats and Republicans. By a 52-46 vote, the Senate agreed to let her bill move forward. But that was still eight votes short of what Collins needs for Senate passage. Her bill would block gun sales to individuals on U.S. government “no fly” lists because of their suspected links to terrorists. Also stopped from buying guns would be people required to go through additional airport screening because of security concerns. Her bill would permit court hearings for those denied the chance to buy guns. The National Rifle Association’s Chris Cox said the Collins’ bill does not do enough to protect gun rights. “Unfortunately, Senator Collins and others are focusing their efforts on unconstitutional proposals that would not have prevented the Orlando terrorist attack,” he said. He added that Congress should focus on fighting terrorism. Shannon Frattaroli is a professor at the Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Policy. He said most of the 30,000 gun violence victims killed each year are not killed by terrorists, but by people they know. Attention for Democrats Is New Catholic University political science professor Matthew Green said all the attention paid to congressional Democrats last week was unusual. Usually, the leaders of the majority party and the news media ignore the minority party, Green said. But he said all the attention to the Democratic protest probably will not be enough to pass a single gun control bill this year. I’m Bruce Alpert.   Bruce Alpert reported on this story for VOA Learning English. Some of the story is based on reports from VOA’s Carol Pearson and Michael Bowman. George Grow was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us about how to reduce violence in the Comments Section and on our Facebook Page. ________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story   focus – n. the subject on which people's attention is placed background check – n. a formal look to see if someone has something in his or her past that would make them a risk law-abiding – adj. obeying laws ploy -- n. a clever trick or plan that is used to get someone to do something or to gain an advantage over someone screen – v. to check people for dangerous items such as guns

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