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Larson Electronics LLC Releases LED Front Grill Headlight Package for Massey Ferguson 491 Tractors

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KEMP, Texas, Jan. 05, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Industrial lighting leader, Larson Electronics LLC, has released an LED work light kit that directly replaces and upgrades existing front grill lights on Massey Ferguson 491 tractors. This LED light kit consists of two Larson Electronics’ IL-LED-DLR-5X2 rectangular LEDs. This light package provides operators with 2,880 total lumens, a powerful and versatile LED tractor lighting, drawing just 60 watts.The LLP-MF-TR-491-V1 tractor light package comes with two of Larson’s IL-LED-DLR-5X2 LED light bars which emit 1,440 lumens each at just 30 watts apiece, and shine bright white 6,000K illumination. These light bars are aluminum with waterproof protection. These LEDs operate on 12-24V DC and feature a breathable design for robust airflow. The LED light bars include a 2-pin connector for quick installation and are connected inline and terminated with a single plug. This setup allows the lights to be easily connected to a single existing wiring harness.

“This package is an excellent energy-efficient upgrade for the existing halogen lamps on Massey Ferguson 491 tractors,” said Rob Bresnahan, CEO of Larson Electronics LLC. “The kit has been specifically designed for direct replacement, so upgrading existing lights is extremely easy.”

*About Larson Electronics LLC: *Larson Electronics LLC is a manufacturer of industrial lighting equipment and accessories. The company offers an extensive catalog of industry-grade lighting and power distribution products for the following sectors: manufacturing, construction, food processing, oil and gas, military, marine and automobile. Customers can benefit from the company’s hands-on, customized approach to lighting solutions. Larson Electronics provides expedited service for quotes, customer support and shipments.

*For further information, please contact:*
Rob Bresnahan, *President and CEO
*Toll-free: 1-888-351-2363
Int’l: 214-616-6180
Fax: 903-498-3364
E-mail: sales@larsonelectronics.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b1bc625b-0fba-40e8-9fd4-8417ecec3eea Reported by GlobeNewswire 14 hours ago.

Russia accuses US of detaining one of their citizens days after ex-US marine's arrest

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Days after Moscow arrested former US Marine Paul Whelan on suspicion of spying, Russia's foreign ministry says the US has detained a Russian citizen. Reported by SBS 12 hours ago.

Explosives to Be Used in the Demolition of a Tappan Zee Bridge Span

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The explosives will be used to take out the legs of the 672-foot east span. The remnants will be trapped in a steel net and recovered by a marine salvage company. Reported by NYTimes.com 10 hours ago.

Macron Needs To Rediscover His ‘A’ Game – OpEd

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By Andrew Hammond*

A new poll suggests that 75 percent of French people are unhappy with the way President Emmanuel Macron is running the country. This underlines the fact that he has been weakened by the so-called “yellow vest” demonstrations, and the key question in 2019 will be whether he can recover some of his formerly sky-high political popularity.

The answer matters not only to France but also Europe and the world at large, given that Macron has emerged as perhaps the most authoritative defender of the liberal international order during his short period in office. Indeed, the French president and his US counterpart Donald Trump currently embody, more than any other democratic leaders, the present “battle” in international relations between an apparently rising populist tide and the liberal center ground. It is a conflict that will continue to play out in 2019.

Macron’s victory in 2017 against Trump’s preferred far-right National Front candidate Marine Le Pen was so striking because it defied the march of populism in numerous countries that had caused parties of the left and center ground sometimes to take a political battering. Macron’s win appeared to represent at least a partial turnaround in fortunes — in Europe at least — for center-ground politics.

From the perspective of French domestic politics, a critical question for Macron in 2019 will be whether the yellow vest protests have extinguished his program of economic reforms. These changes were thrown into doubt after the president announced in December that he had backtracked on a fuel tax hike and gave billions of pounds in aid in an attempt to end several weeks of protests.

In his New Year address, Macron said that the reforms will continue, while admitting that his government “can do better” at improving the lives of citizens across the nation. Yet, many yellow vest protesters are still angry and continue to call for him to leave office.

Last week’s poll compares bleakly for Macron with one from April 2018 when “only” 59 percent of those surveyed were unhappy with the government. The most recent poll also found that the top priority for the French populace is finding ways to boost consumer purchasing power.

The poll, and the continuing protests, underline the volatility of the political mood in France which, ironically, helped propel Macron’s meteoric rise to power in 2017. It was this similar anti-establishment political sentiment that moved the country into uncharted territory by ensuring his En Marche! party — which was only founded in April 2016 — not only won the presidency, but also handsomely won the legislative ballots with one of the biggest majorities since former president Charles de Gaulle’s 1968 landslide victory.

In this continuing volatile context, the outlook is highly uncertain for the remainder of Macron’s presidency. Although a majority of voters decided to favor hope (Macron) over anger (Le Pen) in 2017, the tide could potentially now turn decisively against him if he fails to address the anti-establishment anger, fueled by economic pain caused by the country suffering years of double-digit unemployment and also low growth, which pre-dates his presidency.

Part of the challenge here for Macron, the youngest president in the six-decade history of the French Fifth Republic, has been the very high initial expectations surrounding his presidency. He will be acutely aware how early optimism during the preceding presidencies of Nicholas Sarkozy and Francois Hollande fizzled out, with both ultimately becoming unpopular, single-term heads of state. Indeed, Hollande — who became the least popular president since records began — decided not even to seek re-election, the first incumbent not to try for a second term in the Fifth Republic.

The stakes in play are so high because given voter discontent with the Republicans and the Socialists, if Macron fails with his political program the primary beneficiaries of popular discontent about him might well be extreme, anti-establishment figures such as Le Pen. Although comprehensively beaten by Macron in 2016, she nonetheless secured more than 40 percent of the vote and is young enough to run, potentially, in several more presidential elections.

To regain the political initiative in this context, and become a powerful contender for a second term of office, Macron needs to rebuild public confidence in his policy agenda. During his election campaign, he showed that politicians of the liberal center ground often benefit from having an optimistic, forward-looking vision for tackling complex, long-term policy challenges such as stagnant living standards, and re-engaging people with the political process, to help build public confidence around solutions to them.

Tackling such tough-to-solve, first-order challenges in this context is a significant hurdle that centrist politicians across much of the world are widely perceived to have failed on, which has helped to give rise to perceptions of a broken political process.

To get back on the front foot, Macron will need to skillfully show again how fair, tolerant, inclusive democratic politics can help overcome or ameliorate the challenges that many people are experiencing in a world that is changing fast in the face of globalization.

· Andrew Hammond is an associate at LSE IDEAS at the London School of Economics Reported by Eurasia Review 10 hours ago.

Moscow says FBI arrested Russian a day after it detained ex-U.S. Marine

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By Maxim Rodionov and Barbara Goldberg MOSCOW/NEW YORK (Reuters) - The Russian Foreign Ministry said on Saturday the United States had detained a Russian citizen, a day after Moscow arrested the former U.S. Reported by Firstpost 5 hours ago.

Spy or tourist? The strange case of Paul Whelan

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The arrest of US former marine Paul Whelan in Russia has sparked intrigue across the globe. Is he a spy or just an innocent American tourist caught in the wrong place at the wrong time? Reported by France 24 7 minutes ago.

Explosives to Be Used in the Demolition of a Tappan Zee Bridge Span

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The explosives will be used to take out the legs of the 672-foot east span. The remnants will be trapped in a steel net and recovered by a marine salvage company. Reported by NYTimes.com 19 hours ago.

Spy or tourist in Russia? The strange case of Paul Whelan

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The arrest of US former marine Paul Whelan in Russia has sparked intrigue across the globe. Is he a spy or just an innocent American tourist caught in the wrong place at the wrong time? Reported by France 24 13 hours ago.

Monterey Old Fisherman's Wharf Association to Hold 9th Annual Whalefest Monterey - Free Edu-taining Event in Monterey, California

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This free, fun and educational interactive family event for all ages celebrates the biodiversity of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and much more! Whalefest Monterey, which features a 2-day Symposium with world-renowned marine experts and dozens of exhibit booths, benefits many local and national marine organizations that educate, inspire, and empower the public to protect the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.

MONTEREY, Calif. (PRWEB) January 06, 2019

Monterey Old Fisherman's Wharf Association presents the 9th Annual Whalefest Monterey™ to be held at and around Old Fisherman’s Wharf, Monterey, California, The Whale Watching Capital of the World™ on Saturday, January 26th and Sunday, January 27th, 2019 from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

This free, fun and educational interactive family event for all ages celebrates the biodiversity of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and much more! The event, which features a 2-day Symposium with world-renowned marine experts and dozens of exhibit booths, benefits many local and national marine organizations that educate, inspire and empower the public to protect the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.

Fun edutaining interactive exhibits at the upcoming 9th Annual Whalefest Monterey include over two dozen interactive marine related exhibits by numerous local organizations. Click here for details: WhalefestMonterey Exhibitors

Speakers at the 2-day Symposium during Whalefest Monterey represent The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary/NOAA, MBARI, Hopkins Marine Station, Monterey Bay Aquarium, Monterey Bay Fisheries Trust, the Whale Entanglement Team and more. The Symposium will be held at the Wharf Theatre. Click here for details: Whalefest MontereySymposium Presenters

In addition, Whalefest brings the return of Dee, the 43-foot inflatable whale model people can enter and see its internal organs, and photo ops with costumed creatures roaming the area.

There will be four boats at various times at the California Dock at Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf including the Fulmar (NOAA’s research ship - Saturday only), Current Sea (Marine Life Studies research and WET™ boat), the Coast Guard 43’ foot boat and The Pearl (Monterey Fire Boat).

Monterey Abalone Company will host Abalone Races. Monterey Bay Whale Watching will host scrimshaw-making using soap. Chefs from the Wharf will conduct cooking demos. Discovery Whale Watching/J & M Fishing will host Gyutaku, the Japanese art of stenciling fish.
On the Causeway will be Monterey Peninsula Yacht Club boats, US Coast Guard 29’ foot boat, the Science Seafloor ROV and more.

There will also be live musical entertainment at the head of the Wharf across from the Harbor House as well as an information and merchandise booth, with Whalefest Monterey T-shirts and aprons for donations.

Weather permitting, whale watching tours, fishing, sailing and glass bottom boats will be operating from the Wharf (many at discounted rates). Wharf restaurants will be serving lunch and dinner. Wharf shops will also be featuring marine-themed merchandise.

Special discount Hotel Rates: Stay for the weekend!

Special Whalefest Monterey discount room rates are available at some local Monterey Hotels, including the Portola Inn and Spa. Subject to availability, guests can reserve rooms for a discounted rate of $149 plus taxes per room per night January 25, 26 or 27, 2019 at this website:

https://be.synxis.com/?adult=2&arrive=2019-01-25&chain=18268&child=0&currency=USD&depart=2019-01-28&hotel=65712&level=hotel&locale=en-US&promo=WHALEFEST&rooms=1&sbe_ri=0

Also, there will be discount room rates at the Comfort Inn on both North Fremont and on Munras. Please call the hotel directly. Comfort Inn Monterey By the Sea, 1252 Munras Avenue: 831 372-2908. http://www.stayatmonterey.com and Comfort Inn Monterey Bay, 2050 North Fremont Street 831-373-3081 http://www.montereygetaway.com.

For more information about Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf, go to http://www.montereywharf.com or call (831) 238-0777.

Whale watchers come from around the world to view hundreds of whales, orcas, dolphins and pelicans who continue to feast on a “krill and anchovy buffet” in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Throughout the year, this Whale Watching Capital of the World offers sightings of 15 species of whales, 10 species of dolphins, 2 species of porpoise, 6 species of pinnipeds and 1 species of Fissiped (sea otter).

More details about additional exhibitors and speakers to come! Reported by PRWeb 20 hours ago.

Paul Whelan's brother fears it could take years until the former marine is freed from Russian jail

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The US former marine was expected to return home on Sunday. Instead, Whelan has been detained in a Russian prison over spy allegations. Reported by euronews 19 hours ago.

A U.S. General Walks Baghdad Streets For The First Time In Years

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It's been more than three years, before ISIS, since a U.S. commander has stepped foot in downtown Baghdad. But this week, one U.S. Marine general walked the city streets with his Iraqi counterparts. Reported by NPR 18 hours ago.

Larson Electronics LLC Releases Explosion Proof Motion Sensor – 360° x 70’ Area

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KEMP, Texas, Jan. 06, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Leader in industrial lighting, Larson Electronics LLC, has announced the release of an explosion proof motion sensor approved for Class I, Division 1 and 2, Class II, Divisions 1 and 2, and Class III locations. This motion sensor has coverage patterns consisting of 69 zones in 11 barriers and uses cutting-edge microwave sensors and is equipped with first step processing.The EXP-MS-N4X-AT-HV-V4 is an explosion proof motion sensor from Larson Electronics that provides up to 360° x 70’ coverage when mounted at a height of 12 feet to 25 feet. This unit leverages cutting-edge microwave sensors to detect motion by sending out discreet waves that are reflected from nearby walls and objects, rather than using traditional heat or light waves. Because microwave sensors are not affected by line of sight, they offer wider and more accurate target area coverage. Microwave sensors also provide stable performance in unpredictable climates and penetrate glass, plastic and other non-metallic objects.

This explosion proof unit features first step processing (FSP), meaning the unit adjusts sensitivity levels for each application on its own based on signal amplitude, polarity, slope and timing. FSP also provides instant response to movements in the target area, without sacrificing false alarm immunity to other sources.

Operated like a standard on/off switch, this unit has a normally open circuit when no motion is present. Once motion is detected the circuit will close allowing voltage to pass through to the sensor, powering the device on the other end. This explosion proof motion sensor operates on 120V AC to 240V AC and features one, 1/2” NPT hub or 3/4” NPT hub on either side of the unit

The EXP-MS-N4X-AT-HV-V4 is constructed of non-sparking aluminum and has a glass window where motion is detected through. The unit is wall-mounted via an integral mounting bracket that can be vertically adjusted after installment, allowing users to pinpoint the exact target area they wish the device to detect motion in.

This explosion proof motion sensor is rated for Class I, Divisions 1 & 2, Groups B, C, D, Class I, Zones 1 & 2, Groups IIB+H2, IIA, Class II, Divisions 1 & 2, Groups E, F, G, Class III, features IP66 rated and NEMA rated 3, 4, 4X, 7 (B, C, D) and 9 (E, F, G).

“This motion sensor is perfect for turning on lights in manufacturing facilities, warehouses, and other flammable worksites because of the high-tech microwave sensors,” said Rob Bresnahan, CEO of Larson Electronics LLC. “Microwave sensors are known for being extremely reliable in unpredictable conditions, which you would find in an explosion proof industrial environment. They provide more accurate coverage and detect objects, instead of only heat and light like traditional infrared motion sensors do.”

*About Larson Electronics LLC: *Larson Electronics LLC is a manufacturer of industrial lighting equipment and accessories. The company offers an extensive catalog of industry-grade lighting and power distribution products for the following sectors: manufacturing, construction, food processing, oil and gas, military, marine and automobile. Customers can benefit from the company’s hands-on, customized approach to lighting solutions. Larson Electronics provides expedited service for quotes, customer support and shipments.

*For further information, please contact:*
Rob Bresnahan, *President and CEO
*Toll-free: 1-888-351-2363
Int’l: 214-616-6180
Fax: 903-498-3364
E-mail: sales@larsonelectronics.com

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/751b6f85-96f6-4665-9481-b60410089e3e

http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/87df9d2e-aaeb-4b48-98ae-7e522455b860

http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f2458810-3aac-4181-a93a-def83a08c7b4

http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b9400ace-af4a-4c57-9a8e-db1ca0d363b3 Reported by GlobeNewswire 15 hours ago.

Brother calls on UK Government to `keep an eye´ on sibling detained in Russia

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Brother calls on UK Government to `keep an eye´ on sibling detained in Russia David Whelan, from Ontario, has called on UK Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt to 'keep an eye' on his brother Paul (pictured), a former US Marine with British citizenship who is being detained in Moscow. Reported by MailOnline 3 hours ago.

Matt Castrucci Honda Participating in $500* Military Appreciation Offer

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Certain qualified military personnel may be eligible for a discount at a local Honda dealership.

DAYTON, Ohio (PRWEB) January 06, 2019

As a token of gratitude to the brave men and women who defend the United States of America, Matt Castrucci Honda is offering $500* worth of savings on any 2017 or newer Honda vehicle when financed or leased through Honda Financial Services.

To be eligible, applicants must be active duty in the United States Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, National Guard or be part of the Active Reserve. Spouses of eligible military members may also qualify. Additionally, U.S. Military Ready Reserve and Retirees are eligible as well as U.S. Military Veterans and their spouses within one year of separation from active duty.

When applying, customers will be asked to provide a Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) and proof of military status. Spouses must provide military identification and their own LES as well.

Those who are interested in applying or would like to learn if they are eligible are encouraged to contact Matt Castrucci Honda. This current offer is valid until March 31, 2019. The dealership is located at 3013 Mall Park Drive in Dayton, Ohio, and can be reached over the phone at 855-250-8986.

*For well-qualified customers who meet the Military Appreciation Offer criteria, subject to approval by Honda Financial Services (HFS). Bonus offer applies toward any new 2017 or newer model year Honda that are eligible for new vehicle rates when financed or leased through HFS. Vehicle must be new, unregistered and not previously reported sold. Only offered at participating dealerships. One $500 Military Appreciation Offer per vehicle. LEASE: $500 applied toward the cap cost of vehicle. Monthly payment and total due at lease signing are calculated after $500 reduction. Cannot be combined with Zero Due at Signing Lease program. PURCHASE: $500 applied toward down payment. Reported by PRWeb 13 hours ago.

Male And Female Recruits To Train Together In A First For Marine Corps

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Male And Female Recruits To Train Together In A First For Marine Corps Watch VideoA group of woman recruits will go through boot camp alongside men for the first time in U.S. Marine Corps history.

On Saturday, about 50 female recruits began training with a traditionally all-male battalion at Parris Island, South Carolina. The Marine Corps has the lowest percentage of women of all U.S. military branches, and it's the only branch that separates men from women in basic training.

Women in the battalion will still have female drill instructors and live separately from the men. Interaction between the male and female platoons will mostly be limited to larger training exercises.

This historic first for the Marines is not part of a permanent change in training policies just yet, but NBC News reports the corps will evaluate the session's results in 13 weeks. Reported by Newsy 9 hours ago.

Larson Electronics Releases 72W ATEX/IECEx Rated Flameproof Fluorescent Linear Fixture

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KEMP, Texas, Jan. 06, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Larson Electronics, a Texas-based company with over 40 years of experience spearheading the industrial lighting sector, announced the release of a 72-watt flameproof fluorescent linear fixture designed for outdoor, ATEX/IECEx Zone 1/Zone 2 and Zone 21/Zone 22 flammable environments. This IP66-rated unit comes equipped with two, 4-foot T8 fluorescent lamps that operate on 220V AC 50Hz and feature glass fiber reinforced polyester construction with a UV-resistant polycarbonate lens and foam basket.The ATEX-HALP-48-2L-T8-2X36W-R1-220V flameproof fluorescent linear offers 6,200 lumens of light output in a flood beam configuration with a CRI rating of 75 and color temperature options of 5000K, 4100K or 2700K. This T4 temperature-rated unit can be used in places with ambient temperature ratings between -25˚C and +40˚C and has a lamp lifespan of 20,000+ hours.

This explosion proof fluorescent light fixture features L1, L2, L, N and two PE terminals for completing electrical connections. This light has two, 1.5” (M25) molded plastic/polyamide stopping plugs and a central locking system to protect the internal components. This fixture also features an electronic, internal ballast and two interlock switches that disconnect all poles to the ballast and inverter, as well as turn the power off when the diffuser is open.

This unit is compatible with various mounting configurations, including ceiling, pendant, chain hanging, angle bracket, pole clamp oil derrick and pole top (no mounts included), making it extremely versatile. This flameproof light is suitable for paint spray booths, aircraft maintenance, oil drilling rigs, refineries, gas processing plants, chemical manufacturing, offshore applications and more.

*About Larson Electronics LLC: *Larson Electronics LLC is a manufacturer of industrial lighting equipment and accessories. The company offers an extensive catalog of industry-grade lighting and power distribution products for the following sectors: manufacturing, construction, food processing, oil and gas, military, marine and automobile. Customers can benefit from the company’s hands-on, customized approach to lighting solutions. Larson Electronics provides expedited service for quotes, customer support and shipments.

*For further information, please contact:
*Rob Bresnahan, President and CEO
Toll-free: 1-888-351-2363
Int’l: 214-616-6180
Fax: 903-498-3364
E-mail: sales@larsonelectronics.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b5b01109-7595-4fc6-aaec-97c7cfcbfb4c Reported by GlobeNewswire 10 hours ago.

Two Devon nurses and Royal Marine set to appear on Channel 4's Hunted

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Two Devon nurses and Royal Marine set to appear on Channel 4's Hunted Series four will hit our screens on Thursday where  we will see nurses Emma and Jess and Royal Marine Matt become fugitives Reported by Western Morning News 7 hours ago.

How Climate Change Caused The World’s First Ever Empire To Collapse

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Gol-e-Zard Cave lies in the shadow of Mount Damavand, which at more than 5,000 metres dominates the landscape of northern Iran. In this cave, stalagmites and stalactites are growing slowly over millennia and preserve in them clues about past climate events. Changes in stalagmite chemistry from this cave have now linked the collapse of the Akkadian Empire to climate changes more than 4,000 years ago.

Akkadia was the world’s first empire. It was established in Mesopotamia around 4,300 years ago after its ruler, Sargon of Akkad, united a series of independent city states. Akkadian influence spanned along the Tigris and Euphrates rivers from what is now southern Iraq, through to Syria and Turkey. The north-south extent of the empire meant that it covered regions with different climates, ranging from fertile lands in the north which were highly dependent on rainfall (one of Asia’s “bread baskets”), to the irrigation-fed alluvial plains to the south.

It appears that the empire became increasingly dependent on the productivity of the northern lands and used the grains sourced from this region to feed the army and redistribute the food supplies to key supporters. Then, about a century after its formation, the Akkadian Empire suddenly collapsed, followed by mass migration and conflicts. The anguish of the era is perfectly captured in the ancient Curse of Akkad text, which describes a period of turmoil with water and food shortages:

… the large arable tracts yielded no grain, the inundated fields yielded no fish, the irrigated orchards yielded no syrup or wine, the thick clouds did not rain.

**Drought and dust**

The reason for this collapse is still debated by historians, archaeologists and scientists. One of the most prominent views, championed by Yale archaeologist Harvey Weiss (who built on earlier ideas by Ellsworth Huntington), is that it was caused by an abrupt onset of drought conditions which severely affected the productive northern regions of the empire.

Weiss and his colleagues discovered evidence in northern Syria that this once prosperous region was suddenly abandoned around 4,200 years ago, as indicated by a lack of pottery and other archaeological remains. Instead, the rich soils of earlier periods were replaced by large amounts of wind-blown dust and sand, suggesting the onset of drought conditions. Subsequently, marine cores from the Gulf of Oman and the Red Sea which linked the input of dust into the sea to distant sources in Mesopotamia, provided further evidence of a regional drought at the time.

Many other researchers viewed Weiss’s interpretation with scepticism, however. Some argued, for example, that the archaeological and marine evidence was not accurate enough to demonstrate a robust correlation between drought and societal change in Mesopotamia.

**A new detailed climate record**

Now, stalagmite data from Iran sheds new light on the controversy. In a study published in the journal PNAS, led by Oxford palaeoclimatologist Stacy Carolin, colleagues and I provide a very well dated and high resolution record of dust activity between 5,200 and 3,700 years ago. And cave dust from Iran can tell us a surprising amount about climate history elsewhere.

Gol-e-Zard Cave might be several hundred miles to the east of the former Akkadian Empire, but it is directly downwind. As a result, around 90% of the region’s dust originates in the deserts of Syria and Iraq.

That desert dust has a higher concentration of magnesium than the local limestone which forms most of Gol-e-Zard’s stalagmites (the ones which grow upwards from the cave floor). Therefore, the amount of magnesium in the Gol-e-Zard stalagmites can be used as an indicator of dustiness at the surface, with higher magnesium concentrations indicating dustier periods, and by extension drier conditions.

The stalagmites have the additional advantage that they can be dated very precisely using uranium-thorium chronology. Combining these methods, our new study provides a detailed history of dustiness in the area, and identifies two major drought periods which started 4,510 and 4,260 years ago, and lasted 110 and 290 years respectively. The latter event occurs precisely at the time of the Akkadian Empire’s collapse and provides a strong argument that climate change was at least in part responsible.

The collapse was followed by mass migration from north to south which was met with resistance by the local populations. A 180km wall – the “Repeller of the Amorites” – was even built between the Tigris and Euphrates in an effort to control immigration, not unlike some strategies proposed today. The stories of abrupt climate change in the Middle East therefore echo over millennia to the present day.

This article was originally published in The Conversation. Reported by Eurasia Review 5 hours ago.

Family fears US man held in Russia is political pawn

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NEWMARKET, Canada: The brother of an American detained in Russia for alleged spying says the ex-Marine might be caught in a diplomatic tug-of-war between the two powers, and the family fears he could be convicted on flimsy evidence. Reported by Bangkok Post 2 hours ago.

Family fears US man held in Russia is pawn in diplomatic dispute

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NEWMARKET (CANADA) - The brother of an American detained in Russia for alleged spying says the ex-Marine might be caught in a diplomatic tug-of-war between the two powers, and the family fears he could be convicted on flimsy evidence. Reported by Bangkok Post 5 hours ago.
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