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Kayley Loveridge

Poisoned Cheesecake

Woman Attempts Murder with Poisoned Cheesecake

A Russian woman has been charged with poisoning a Queens woman with a poisoned cheesecake. The suspect, Viktoria Nasyrova of Brooklyn, had also tried to make it look like a suicide attempt after stealing the victim’s passport, cash and property.

Queens district attorney, Richard Brown, commented “This is a bizarre and twisted crime that could have resulted in the death of a Queens woman, whose only fault was that she shared similar features with the defendant.”

The 42-year-old suspect was first arrested March 2017 and was arraigned on Tuesday on attempted murder with the poisoned cheesecake, burglary, assault and other charges.

Nasyrova approached the victim’s home Forest Hills, Queens, back in August 2016 with the poison-laced cheesecake. Brown said, “The woman ate the cheesecake, fell ill and laid down.

“Before passing out, the woman’s last memory is of seeing the defendant sitting beside her inside her home.”

The 35-year-old victim wouldn’t be found until the following day by a friend. She was “dressed in lingerie with pills scattered around her body as if the woman had attempted to kill herself,” according to Brown.

The victim was treated at hospital. When she returned home, she found that both her passport and employment authorisation cards were missing, along with jewelry and some money.

Law enforcement agents at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed after testing that the poisoned cheesecake was in fact laced with a Russian tranquilliser called Phenazepan.

Nasyrova has also been accused of drugging and murdering another woman in her native country, although she denied these charges in an interview with CBS. The suspect is due to appear in court May 25; if convicted, Nasyrova faces up to 25 years in prison.

More news: Glee Actor Mark Salling Found Dead in Attempted Suicide

Tabletote

Use Tabletote Laptop Stands!

There’s no denying that college life is a compact life. Space is a luxury that no one gets to enjoy. Laptops are a necessity, but being comfortable using them isn’t always doable. Students at campuses across the globe can be seen studying with their laptops on the ground or on their laps. Not having something to put your laptop on can be extremely inconvenient. A portable workspace would be the perfect remedy.

Tabletote Portable Compact Lightweight Adjustable Laptop Stands is an incredible solution. Students have found so many ways to use it at school. It can be used as a standing workstation instead of sitting for hours. Place it on top of an existing structure to debate with your opponent. It can also be used as a projector stand, great for video presentations.

It’s lightweight and small enough to fit in your backpack, suitcase or computer bag. This makes for easy portability anywhere. On those beautiful sunny or fall days you can take it camping, or to the beach. When you’re hanging out around the quad, take it to your favorite spot around campus to eat your lunch on. Just place your drink in the cup holder.  It holds beverages, pens, and even your phone without consuming your laptop space. When taking a break from studying, it’s still sturdy enough to play videos game on, card games, and board games. The uses for Tabletote are practically limitless.

Tabletote is highly functional and set up takes literally less than a minute. Best of all, the compact capabilities allow you to use it without taking up a lot of space. Store it under your bed, couch, or any small area. This is perfect for using in dorm rooms. You can replace that bulky desk completely to make your side of the room a little more spacious. Sharing the restroom is a part of college life, but transform this product into your very own vanity table. Now you can get ready for events in your room by using Tabletote to apply your makeup. The list goes on and on for how you can use this product.

Tabletote’s laptop stands are unique and different—not just another “me too!” product.

  • COMPACT—With a folded up size of 13” (L) x 10” (W) x 2” (H),Tabletote is easy to transport and fits in most laptop bags and backpacks.
  • PORTABLE—Because of its compact size, it is easy to move from one place to another.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT—Weighs less than 3 lbs, so it is not a burden to carry.
  • ADJUSTABLE—Telescoping legs allow for height adjustment, from 12 inches to 29 inches, so you can use it while sitting down and standing up.
  • EXPANDABLE WORK SURFACE—Slide off bottom extends the top of the stand, increasing work surface from 13 inches to 22 inches.
  • EASY TO SET UP AND REQUIRES NO TOOLS—Sets up in less than 45 seconds.
  • FREE DOCUMENT HOLDER—Keeps paper at eye level while typing.
  • DURABLE—Made from high quality materials, so can withstand extended use.

The Original and Plus models are essentially the same, except the Plus comes with two clip-on accessories: a cup holder and a PDA holder. So as you head back to school, make sure Tabletote is on your essentials list.

Sold exclusively via Amazon.com, Tabletote’s stands are top sellers. Of the 100s of laptop stands being sold, their Original and Plus Tabletote are both in the TOP 20. Their products are priced with the college student in mind, with the Original Tabletote selling for just $25.99 and the Tabletote Plus for $27.99. Compare that to other stands selling for between $75-$100! ORDER YOURS NOW AT AMAZON.COM.

Nuclear Weapons

Putin Unveils ‘Invincible’ Nuclear Weapons

Vladimir Putin has unveiled an array of ‘invincible’ nuclear weapons. Russia’s president made the claims during his annual state of the nation speech that laid out his core policies for another presidential term ahead of the election in just over two weeks’ time.

During the speech to the Russian parliament, Putin presented videos that outlined the development of new nuclear delivery systems including cruise missiles, intercontinental ballistic missiles and supersonic jets. One of the nuclear weapons included a cruise missile that Putin claimed could “reach anywhere in the world”.

Another weapon announced included an undetectable missile. Putin explained that it was a “low-flying, difficult-to-spot cruise missile… with a practically unlimited range and an unpredictable flight path, which can bypass lines of interception and is invincible in the face of all existing and future systems of both missile defence and air defence.”

Beyond this, Putin unveiled a nuclear weapon described as a submarine-launched missile capable of delivering a nuclear warhead. “Russia still has the greatest nuclear potential in the world, but nobody listened to us,” he said. “Listen now.”

Putin claimed that the development of the new arsenal of nuclear weapons were a reaction to America’s move to withdraw from the 1972 Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty.

“Efforts to contain Russia have failed, face it,” said Mr Putin. “I hope that all that was said today will sober up any potential aggressor.”

Chairman of the Russian Senate’s foreign affairs committee, Konstantin Kosachev, said Putin’s speech “should, I believe, cool down the minds of all those who are seriously reflecting on the possibility of delivering an unpunished blow to Russia: the answer will be crushing.”

While the threat may seem clear, Putin maintains that Russia’s development of these nuclear weapons is purely defensive. “We’ve never had an intention of attacking anybody,” he said. “Russia will only retaliate if it is attacked.”

Further reading: North Korea Tests Ballistic Missile

Cornell Alumni

Cornell Alumni Earn Medals at Pyeongchang Winter Olympics

Six Cornell alumni won medals at the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, reports the Cornell Chronicle.  

Laura Fortino, Jillian Saulnier, Lauriane Rougeau, Ben Scrivens, Rebecca Johnston and Brianne Jenner were all Cornell Big Red ice hockey alumni; the women earned silver medals with Team Canada while Scrivens earned a bronze medal with the Canadian’s hockey team.

“We have a lot of Cornellians who cheer for us,” says Jenner, who served as an assistant captain for Team Canada. “It always surprises me a little, but it’s great! It just feels like Cornell hockey goes deeper. And we certainly feel the support. There was actually a Cornell jersey in the stands at one of our games in Pyeongchang. I’m very proud to have gone to Cornell and to have been part of the Cornell Hockey community. And the fans are what make it so special.

In addition to the Cornell alumni who earned medals in hockey, former Cornell track and field players Jamie Greubel Poser and Josh Kirkpatrick competed in the bobsled competition. This year’s winter Olympics was Kirkpatrick’s debut with Canada, and he finished 12th in the four-man bobsled.

For more on the Cornell alumni who earned medals at Pyeongchang Olympics, click here.

Arctic Temperature Rise

Climate Change Fears as Arctic Temperature Rises

The Arctic experienced record warmth this month after a major heatwave. It is yet to be determined as a freak occurrence, yet climate experts warn that the Arctic temperature rise is unprecedented.

The primary concern among scientists is that global warming is damaging and eroding the polar vortex—winds that insulate the north pole.

“This is an anomaly among anomalies,” said Michael Mann, director of the Earth System Science Center at Pennsylvania State University. “It is far enough outside the historical range that it is worrying—it is a suggestion that there are further surprises in store as we continue to poke the angry beast that is our climate.

“The Arctic has always been regarded as a bellwether because of the vicious circle that amplify human—caused warming in that particular region. And it is sending out a clear warning.”

Ruth Mottram of the Danish Meteorological Institute said “Spikes in temperature are part of the normal weather patterns—what is unusual about this event is that it has persisted for so long and that it has been so warm.

“Going back to the late 1950s at least we have never seen such high temperatures in the high Arctic.”

While it is normal for temperatures to fluctuate in the Arctic north as a result of the strength or weakness of the polar vortex that works to deflect warm air to keep the region cool, the recent heat peaks that the area has been experiencing have been lasting longer and longer.

Robert Rohde, lead scientist at Berkeley Earth, said “In 50 years of Arctic reconstructions, the current warming event is both the most intense and one of the longest-lived warming events ever observed during winter.”

 

Matt Forte Retirement from NFL

NFL Star Matt Forte Announces Retirement

NFL star Matt Forte announces retirement from playing after 10 NFL seasons.

On Wednesday February 28, the Jets’ running back took to social media to release an emotional statement. “It’s time for the workhorse to finally rest in his stable,” he said. “For the past 10 years, I’ve been blessed to play professionally a game that i’ve loved since I was six year’s old, but after much prayer and reflection, I’ve decided to retire from the NFL.”

The announcement of retirement comes amid knee complaints during two seasons in New York despite a contractual obligation that tied him to another year to the New York Jets, but the player left on his own terms.

Forte has had a highly successful career, having ranked 33rd in the NFL’s career list. Forte spent the first eight years of his football career with the prestigious Chicago Bears. The New York Jets signed him to a three-year contract worth $12 million back in 2015.

“While my heart is a bit heavy as i close this chapter of my life,” Forte wrote, “I am excited about what the future holds.”

The 32-year-old NFL star has received a huge amount of support following his announcements. Former Bears center Olin Kreutz said that he was “one of the best all-around backs of his era, if not the best.”

The New York Jets’ Jamal Adams called Forte “a true class act” while former Chicago Bears full back, Jason McKie, addressed the NFL star by saying “I knew you were special the first day you set foot in Halas Hall.”

Now that Forte has retired from the NFL, the Jets have a spot open and will save $3 million on their salary cap. Meanwhile, Forte will be able to direct his commitments and energy elsewhere, with his family and health.

Further reading: Down to Eight: NFL Playoffs Are Here

Sexual harassment Allegations

Ryan Seacrest Denies Sexual Harassment Allegations

American Idol presenter Ryan Seacrest denies sexual harassment allegations once again after his accuser went public.

The TV personality’s former colleague and stylist Suzie Hardy alleged that he had sexually harassed her for six years beginning in 2007, when the pair worked together at E! News.

An article published by Daniel Holloway inVariety outlined an occasion that occurred in 2010, whereby Seacrest “allegedly reached down and tightly grabbed [Hardy’s] vagina.” In 2013, HR executives at E! inquired about the nature of Hardy’s relationship with Seacrest. “I never touched him, I never kissed him, I never f-ked him, nothing. But I said ‘He touched me,’” Hardy told Variety. Two weeks after the meeting, Hardy’s contract with E! News was terminated.

Seacrest responded to the Variety article in a statement on Tuesday, calling it a “salacious story.”

The 43-year-old said “This person who has accused me of horrible things offered, on multiple occasions, to withdraw her claims if i paid her millions of dollars. I refused.”

Holloway told CBS News on Tuesday “We obviously wouldn’t have published the story if we didn’t feel that it was highly credible and highly compelling.”

Co-editor-inchief of Variety took to Twitter on 27 February claiming to have spoken with Seacrest’s publicist before publishing the article: “We asked to speak to Seacrest directly and his reps declined to make him available. Seacrest’s reps claimed to have evidence discrediting the accuser, Suzie Hardy, but refused to provide that as well, citing legal restrictions.”

A spokesperson for E! News has said that the investigation into the sexual harassment allegations made against Seacrest had been carried out in thorough detail. “The investigator is an attorney with nearly 20 years’ experience and is highly regarded professionally. Any claims that question the legitimacy of this investigation are completely baseless.”

Amid the sexual harassment allegations, Seacrest will still host coverage from the red carpet at this year’s Oscars awards ceremony as scheduled.

Further reading: Louis C.K. Admits to Accusations of Sexual Misconduct

Dick's Sporting Goods No Longer Sell Assault-Style Rifles

Dick’s Sporting Goods to No Longer Sell Assault-style Rifles

Major American sports retailer Dick’s Sporting Goods have announced that it will no longer sell assault-style rifles in its stores. The move comes after news that Nikolas Cruz, the Florida gunman behind the horrific shooting at Majory Stoneman Douglas high school in Parkland February 14 that killed 17 students, had previously bought a gun at a Dick’s store back in 2017. The gun used in the shooting was not bought from Dick’s, however.

Chairman and CEO of Dick’s Sporting Goods, Edward Stack, said on Good Morning America, “Based on what’s happened and looking at those kids and those parents, it moved us all unimaginably.”

“To think about the loss and the grid that those kids and those parents had, we said, ‘we need to do something’… And we’re taking these guns out of all of our stores permanently,” he explained.

Talking about how easy it is for people to purchase assault-style rifles, Stack said, “We did everything that the law required and still he was able to buy a gun. We looked at that, and said, ‘The systems that are in place across the board just aren’t enough to keep us from selling someone a gun like that.’”

When asked if the decision to stop selling guns would ever be reversed, Stack assuredly said no. “We’re staunch supporters of the second Amendment. I’m a gun owner myself. We’ve just decided that based on what’s happened with these guns, we don’t want to be a part of this story and we’ve eliminated these guns permanently.”

Dick’s Sporting Good’s’ decision to stop selling assault-style rifles is a momentous step forward in the fight for tighter gun control laws in the country.

On Tuesday, relatives of the victims of the Florida shooting gave emotional testimonies during a legislative hearing to determine whether or not the age limit for buying long guns could be raised from the young age of 18 to 21.

Further reading: When Will Horrific Scourge of School Shootings in America End?

Chocolate Rose Petal Cookies

Chocolate Rose Petal Cookies Recipe

Tasty, sugary treats every once in a while, are good for the soul. These gorgeous chocolate rose petal cookies are enough to get the mouth salivating, and are simple to make, too!

Ingredients

  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 cup cake flour
  • 110 grams Butter at room temperature
  • 60 grams Icing sugar
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp. rose petals
  • Chocolate glaze

Method

  1. To begin preparation for the chocolate rose petal cookies, stir together flour and baking powder. Beat together the butter and sugar until light and creamy. Gradually add in the egg and vanilla extract and beat until well-combined.
  2. Add in the sifted flour mixture and rose petals. Cover the batter in greaseproof wrapper and chill for 1 hour.
  3. Shape dough into 1-inch balls and place 2-inch apart on the tray lined with a baking paper. Lightly flatten them with a spoon.
  4. Bake in the middle part of the preheated 350F oven for about 18-20 minutes.
  5. Remove to wire racks and cool completely. Dip with the chocolate glaze.

Enjoy these chocolate rose petal cookies? Let College News know!

 

Vitamin C

Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum

Did you know that all natural Vitamin C serum can protect your skin from photo damage, while brightening and smoothing your complexion?

Mad Hippie’s award-winning vitamin C serum works to even out skin tone and smooth out texture, keeping your skin clear and beautiful. The vitamin C serum also helps to inhibit photo damage from the sun—the cause of some 90 percent of skin ageing.

Ingredient highlights

Vitamin C (Sodium ascorbyl phosphate) 

Few ingredients in skin care have as much solid evidence as to their effectiveness as vitamin C. A vital element in the production of collagen, this vitamin can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and discoloration, while offering antioxidant protection from photoaging—a leading cause of ageing skin.

Sodium ascorbyl phosphate, a more stable and bioavailable form of vitamin C than the commonly used L-Ascorbic Acid found in most skin care products, provides the same benefits, without the risk of oxidation and irritation that is often associated with L-Ascorbic Acid.  

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a protective antioxidant that has been shown to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and discoloration.

Ferulic acid

A natural antioxidant found in the cell walls of plants. When combined with vitamins C and E, ferulic acid has been shown to have a compounding antioxidant protective effect.

Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid works to plump up the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. A naturally occurring substance in the body, hyaluronic acid begins to deplete as we age.

Allure magazine has called Mad Hippie’s vitamin C serum “a miracle worker”, while beauty and lifestyle magazine Marie Claire described it as ‘what we in the industry call magic’”.

Visit www.madhippie.com for more information!

Further reading: 6 Makeup Trends for Christmas