| |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
Enews for the Week of 2 October 2008
Vol. 10, No. 40
|
I. General News Briefs |
|
NEW |
|
|
Congress Passes Another FAA Funding Extension, NBAA Underscores Need for Multi-Year Reauthorization
From NBAA (#08-39)
"NBAA last week urged Congress to use the time provided by a new extension of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) funding to complete work on FAA reauthorization as soon as possible. The extension funds the FAA through 31 March 2009. 'NBAA applauds Congress for the progress already made on FAA reauthorization, and this funding extension is important for allowing airport projects and other FAA programming to continue,' said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. 'At the same time, we think it's also important for Congress to send to the President, as soon as possible, a completed reauthorization package that provides long-term stability and builds on the work already being done to modernize America's aviation system.' To view full press release, visit: http://web.nbaa.org/public/news/pr/2008/20080924-046.php"
Universal Home Page ¦ Return to Top |
|
Universal® Enews is a weekly electronic summary service provided through Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. The day of release may fluctuate due to late-breaking information. Please forward all questions and comments concerning Universal Enews to enewseditor@univ-wea.com.
To subscribe, visit:
universalweather.com/news/enews.html.
Click this link to automatically opt-out from this electronic mailing list.
For information on services from Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc., including trip support, flight planning, online services, weather, and more, visit universalweather.com.
To learn about our competitive contract fuel solutions, including the UVair® Fueling Card and the UVair Visa® Purchasing Card, visit uvair.com.
To find Universal Aviation(sm) worldwide ground support locations and learn about their services, visit universalaviation.aero.
Additional offerings:
UVdatalink®
Air-to-ground (ACARS and SATCOM) communications
UVflightplanner.com(sm)
Online utility for creating flight plans and accessing weather data
UVTripPlanner(sm)
Extensive pre-flight planning resource with data on worldwide airports, handlers, and much more; available online, on CD-ROM, and in print
FlightPak®
Scheduling software for flight operations
FBO Manager
Management software for fixed-base operators to help maximize profits and efficiencies
ImpactWeather, Inc.(sm)
Universal® subsidiary that provides weather briefs, graphics, and other data for business, and broadcast forecasting
Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc.
Global Headquarters
8787 Tallyho Road
Houston, Texas 77061
USA
Worldwide (713) 944-1622
N. America Toll-Free (800) 231-5600 |
|
|
|
Legal notice
© 2008 Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc.
Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. has compiled the content of this publication from various sources and believes it to be accurate at the time of distribution. Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. shall not, however, be liable for factual or editorial errors contained herein. Readers should NOT act or rely on the information until they have confirmed its continuing accuracy.
|
NEW |
|
|
House Aviation Panel Reviews Runway Safety Issues
From NBAA (#08-39)
"The House Aviation Subcommittee held a hearing last week to review progress on efforts to improve runway safety. The hearing comes in the wake of several highly publicized runway incursions, including some involving general aviation. Members of the subcommittee noted that some progress had been made to reduce runway incursions, but urged the aviation community and the FAA to maintain a focus on improving runway safety. Specifically, subcommittee members called for a continued emphasis on pilot fatigue, greater voluntary safety reporting and increased air traffic controller participation in safety efforts. Hank Krakowski, head of the FAA's Air Traffic Organization, outlined progress in deploying new runway incursion technologies, and he commended NBAA and other stakeholder organizations for working to improve runway safety awareness. For more information on the hearing, contact NBAA's Dick Doubrava at rdoubrava@nbaa.org."
Universal Home Page ¦ Return to Top |
|
NEW |
|
|
Federal Regulators, Industry Leaders to Present at NBAA2008
From NBAA (#08-39)
"Attendees at NBAA’s 61st Annual Meeting & Convention (NBAA2008) will hear from industry leaders on business aviation’s most relevant topics. International Civil Aviation Organization President Roberto Kobeh González will give the keynote address at the Opening General Session, taking place on Monday, 6 October at 8:00 a.m. in room S230A of the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL, followed by political couple James Carville and Mary Matalin. The Honorable Robert L. Sumwalt, member of the National Transportation Safety Board, will deliver the keynote at the NBAA Safety Committee Town Hall on Sunday, 5 October from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. in room S310E. In addition, NBAA2008 will feature aviation safety and regulatory officials from the FAA and the Department of Transportation at a special “Meet the Regulators” session on Wednesday, 8 October from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. in room S320EF. To review the full program for NBAA2008, visit: http://web.nbaa.org/public/cs/amc/2008/program/"
Universal Home Page ¦ Return to Top |
|
NEW |
|
|
Students Welcomed to Florida Aviation Day at NBAA2008
From NBAA (#08-39)
"NBAA2008 will feature Florida Aviation Day on Wednesday, 8 October, to introduce students to the business aviation industry and highlight the opportunities and benefits of careers in business aviation. An introductory session will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., where NBAA will welcome university students from across the state of Florida. In honor of Florida Aviation Day, university students presenting a valid student ID, and employees with NBAA Member Companies based in Florida can attend NBAA2008 for free on Wednesday, which includes entry into the exhibit hall and the Static Display of Aircraft. Shuttle buses to the static display will be available throughout the day. For more information, visit: http://web.nbaa.org/public/cs/amc/2008/program/"
Universal Home Page ¦ Return to Top |
|
NEW |
|
|
NBAA2008 Online News Bureau to Provide Coverage During Show
From NBAA (#08-39)
"The NBAA2008 Online News Bureau will provide continuous online multimedia coverage of NBAA2008 directly from the show floor on Sunday, 5 October through Wednesday, 8 October. During this time, the NBAA2008 Web site will become a virtual portal for all key events, featuring stories and multimedia, including photos, podcasts and PowerPoint presentations. To follow highlights from the world's largest purely civil aviation trade show as they unfold, visit the Online News Bureau during NBAA2008: http://www.nbaa.org/2008/"
Universal Home Page ¦ Return to Top |
|
In Effect |
|
|
Universal Resumes Normal Operations Following Hurricane Ike
Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. has resumed normal operations following Hurricane Ike. Clients should feel free to no longer limit calls to our headquarters at this time. We appreciate the cooperation and patience all our clients displayed throughout this situation.
Universal Home Page ¦ Return to Top |
|
In Effect |
|
|
In Aviation Panel Forum, Bolen Underscores Value of System Modernization
From NBAA (#08-38)
"NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen, in comments at an aviation industry forum held by the Air Traffic Control Association last week, reiterated the support from the general aviation community for aviation system modernization, and pointed out the benefits of continued system transformation. 'We look forward to continuing our efforts with government and industry stakeholders on this important issue,' Bolen said. 'We need to build upon the good work already done to transform the nation's aviation system, given its importance to our nation's economy and citizens' quality of life.' Read a Web article about the forum at: http://web.nbaa.org/public/news/articles/20080918.php"
Universal Home Page ¦ Return to Top |
|
In Effect |
|
|
Wall Street Developments Highlight Need for Awareness in Insurance Matters
From NBAA (#08-38)
"In recent days, NBAA has received questions from operators who are concerned about the developments unfolding in the financial markets, and considering what actions they should take, if any, with respect to their aviation insurance policies. 'NBAA recommends that operators who are concerned about their specific situation communicate with their aviation insurance broker about plans and contingencies,' said NBAA's Mike Nichols, vice president, operations, education & economics. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners today issued a statement specific to the situation involving American International Group, which has a large aviation practice. NBAA Members with questions can contact the Association's Operations Service Group at info@nbaa.org. To view the statement, visit: http://www.naic.org/Releases/2008_docs/AIG_solvency.htm"
Universal Home Page ¦ Return to Top |
|
In Effect |
|
|
NBAA Supports House Legislation to Curb Energy Futures Speculation Trading
From NBAA (#08-38)
"Last week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation to limit excessive speculation in the agriculture and energy futures markets. The Commodity Markets Transparency and Accountability Act, H.R. 6604, grants the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) the authority to limit the number of offshore agricultural and energy futures contracts that an investor may own. The legislation also grants the CFTC the ability to impose limits on over-the-counter traders as well. 'Given that increased futures trading by speculators has been linked to the surge in fuel prices over the past year, NBAA welcomes initiatives like this one, which are intended to head off runaway cost spikes for fuel,' said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. No Senate action on the bill has been scheduled. For more information, visit the web site for the Stop Oil Speculation Now coalition, which NBAA joined earlier this year, at: http://www.stopoilspeculationnow.com/"
Universal Home Page ¦ Return to Top |
|
In Effect |
|
|
NBAA Has Member Resource Regarding Misclassified Workers
From NBAA (#08-38)
"For the many flight departments that utilize independent contractors, it is important to understand the ramifications of misclassifying employees as contractors. Beginning in tax year 2007, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) released a new form that can be utilized by employees who believe they have been misclassified as independent contractors. The IRS will likely use this information in its effort to determine if employers are avoiding tax obligations by misclassifying workers. While determining what constitutes an independent contractor may be difficult, this NBAA resource provides Members with information that can assist in making the determination. To view the resource, visit: http://web.nbaa.org/member/ops/adm/misclassified.php"
Universal Home Page ¦ Return to Top |
|
Newly Added UVair Fuel Locations as of 2 October 2008 |
|
|
UVair welcomes new domestic (U.S.) FBO locations that have recently joined the UVair Fueling Program. Visit any of the UVair fuel member locations to receive negotiated savings and streamlined custom billing.
Call (713) 378-2727 or N. America Toll-Free (866) 882-4737, or visit uvair.com, to learn more about UVair, obtain a fuel price quote, or find a UVair location near your home base or destination.
- Avflight Saginaw (KMBS) - Saginaw, MI
- Bellingham Fueling Service (KBLI) - Bellingham, WA
- Careflight Aviation Center (KNYL, previously KYUM) - Yuma, AZ
- Executive Beechcraft (KSUS) - St. Louis, MO
- Golden West Jet Center (KOXR) - Oxnard, CA
- Sonoma Jet Center (KSTS) - Santa Rosa, CA
- Tupelo Aviation Limited (KTUP) - Tupelo, MS
- Triangle Aviation (KLEE) - Leesburg, FL
Universal Home Page ¦ Return to Top |
|
Low / No Fuel Announcements |
|
|
- (ALL - Brazil) Brazilian-based customers, or those international operators continuing operations within Brazil, cannot fuel via UVair® card or fuel authorization at domestic airports within Brazil. (Domestic airports do not have on-site customs office, and are classed "not an airport of entry.") If clients must fuel at SBSP, SBNF, SBSR, SBAQ, SBCY, fuel credit may be obtained through the handling agent. Handlers purchase fuel direct from the supplier, pay in local currency, and incur all taxes, duties, and fees as applicable. UVair is then invoiced by the handler in USD; as such, fuel prices will be nearly double the UVair price estimate, since taxes, duties, and fees-plus a 15% administrative fee-will be added. Standard UVair pricing within Brazil includes taxes duties and fees as applicable only to international operations.
- (ALL - Dominican Republic) - fuel is available as normal; threatened blockade by transportation union did not materialize.
- (ALL - Western Canada) Confirm fuel availability at these western Canadian airports: Calgary (CYYC), Edmonton- International Airport (CYEG), Edmonton-Blatchford Field (CYXD), Grande Prairie (CYQU), Fort McMurray (CYMM), Yellowknife (CYZF), Saskatoon (CYXE), Regina (CYQR), and Winnipeg (CYWG).
- (ALL - France) All aircraft must present a valid Aircraft Operator Certificate (AOC) as proof of exemption prior to fueling, or be subject to VAT of 19.6 percent.
- (EDDG) Munster-Osnabruck - refueling area at the GA Terminal is unavailable through 6 October at 1600Z. GA operators must fuel at position 18 until maintenance is completed.
- (EIDW) Dublin - authorization to fuel with passengers on board must be requested on day of arrival. If permission is given, an overseer with vehicle must standby until fueling is complete to ensure passengers can evacuate in case of an emergency. All aircraft must present a valid Aircraft Operator Certificate (AOC) as proof of exemption prior to fueling, or be subject to VAT of 13.5 percent.
- (EKRN) Bornholm has no fuel available through 14 October at 1400Z.
- (FAJS) Johannesburg, South Africa has an unreliable fuel supply. Advise fuel volume requirements on your fuel request and confirm availability.
- (FGBT) Bata, Equatorial Guinea has limited fuel availability. Advise fuel volume requirements and confirm availability first, especially for uplifts above 2,500 USG.
- (FGSL) Malabo, Equatorial Guinea has no fuel available until further notice.
- (FKKR) Garoua, Cameroon has a limited fuel supply. Advise requirements on your fuel request and confirm availability.
- (FLLS) Lusaka, Zambia has no fuel available until further notice.
- (FOOL) Libreville, Gabon has no fuel available until further notice.
- (FZWA) Mbuji-Mayi, Democratic Republic of the Congo has no fuel available until further notice.
- (HDAM) Djibouti - supplier has changed from Shell to Air Total effective 2 October.
- (HHAS) Asmara, Eritrea has no fuel available until further notice.
- (HLKF) Kufrah, Libya - only national and VIP flights will be fueled. No fuel will be provided to flights departing for out-of-country destinations.
- (HTZA) Zanzibar Island, Tanzania has an unreliable fuel supply. Advise fuel volume requirements on your fuel request and confirm availability.
- (LEVC) Valencia, Spain - all fuel operators will be charged an additional fee, estimated at $35 USD, for fueling at the south aircraft parking zone.
- (MTPP) Port-au-Prince, Haiti has no fuel available for ad hoc flights (including UVair) until further notice. Special exception made to military flights on a case-by-case basis.
- (NZWN) Wellington, New Zealand is undergoing a hydrant shutdown through 2 October. No service delays are expected. Advise all fuel volumes in advance.
- (OMDB) Dubai, United Arab Emirates - expect lengthy fueling delays due to the logistics of transporting fuel at a large airport, and that commercial operators always take first priority. Fueling on arrival is recommended. Request that handler direct the fuel truck and driver to stand by at parking position to minimize delays.
- (SMJP) Paramaribo/Zandery, Suriname - fuel stocks are in short supply through 6 October. Divert to Bridgetown (TBPB) or Philipsburg, St. Maarten (TNCM) if possible.
Universal Home Page ¦ Return to Top |
|
Upcoming Aviation Shows, Conventions and Events |
|
|
(Note: Some events may require parking slots/requests. All dates are 2008 unless otherwise noted.)
|
6-8 October
NBAA 61st Annual Meeting & Convention (NBAA2008)
Orlando, FL
http://web.nbaa.org/public/cs/amc/2008/
16-18 November
MEBA 2008
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
http://www.meba.aero/
11-12 February 2009
Asian Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition (ABACE Forum 2009)
Hong Kong
http://www.abace.aero/
18-19 February 2009
NBAA Leadership Conference
New Orleans, LA
http://web.nbaa.org/public/cs/
10-12 March 2009
AS3
Las Vegas, NV
http://www.aviationindustryexpo.com/index.po
10-15 March 2009
Avalon/Australia International Air Show
Victoria, Australia
http://www.airshow.net.au/
|
|
12-14 March 2009
NBAA’s Inaugural Light Business Airplane Exhibition & Conference (NBAA Light)
San Diego, CA
http://web.nbaa.org/public/cs/lba/2009/
30 March-2 April 2009
IOC
San Diego, CA
http://web.nbaa.org/public/cs/
12-14 May 2009
9th Annual European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE2009)
Geneva, Switzerland
http://www.ebace.aero/
1-3 June 2009
CBAA
Montreal, Canada
http://www.cbaa.ca/portal/convention/
15-21 June 2009
Paris Air Show
Paris, France
http://www.paris-air-show.com/ |
Universal Home Page ¦ Return to Top |
|
II. U.S. Department of State Briefings |
|
Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza Travel Warning - 26 September 2008 |
|
|
Partial duplication from http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_922.html
"The State Department strongly recommends that American citizens refrain from all travel to the Gaza strip and that those already in Gaza depart immediately. Hamas, a State Department-designated foreign terrorist organization, violently assumed control over Gaza in June 2007, making worse the already dangerous security situation there. Although a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas went into effect 19 June 2008, the Gaza Strip continues to be a potential center of violence between Israeli security forces and Palestinian terrorist groups. Militants there have abducted Western citizens, and terrorist organizations have threatened attacks against U.S. interests.
"The security environment is very fluid in the vicinity of the Gaza Strip, and the ceasefire could collapse with little or no advance warning. Rocket and mortar launches into Israel are unpredictable, resulting in a potentially unsafe situation. Gunfire from Gaza into Israel is a danger. Palestinian snipers have killed individuals within rifle range of the Gaza border. As a result, travel in the surrounding area is strongly discouraged. Due to the continued high level of tensions and violence in and near the Gaza Strip, all U.S. Embassy and Consulate General employees are required to provide 24 hours advance notice of any official travel to the city of Sderot, crossing points into Gaza, and to any other areas bordering Gaza.
"The security environment in the West Bank remains volatile. Violent demonstrations, kidnappings and shootings are unpredictable and can occur without warning. The Department of State urges Americans to defer travel to the West Bank at this time.
"The IDF continues to carry out security operations in the West Bank, including nighttime raids to arrest terrorist suspects that sometimes result in gun battles. Israeli security operations can occur at any time, including frequent raids to arrest terrorist suspects that result in shootings, demonstrations and often violent conflict. This heightens the risk of Americans being caught in the middle of potentially dangerous situations.
"The State Department urges American citizens to remain vigilant while traveling throughout Jerusalem, especially within the commercial and downtown areas of West Jerusalem and the city center. Israeli security services report that they continue to receive information of planned terrorist attacks in and around Jerusalem.
"Americans in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip are strongly encouraged to register with the Consular Sections of the U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv or the U.S. Consulate General in Jerusalem through the State Department's travel registration Web site, https://travelregistration.state.gov/. U.S. citizens who require emergency services may telephone the Consulate General in Jerusalem at (972) (2) 628-7137, after hours: (972) (2) 622-7250 or the Embassy in Tel Aviv at (972) (3) 519-7575, after hours: (972) (3) 519-7551." |
|
Pakistan Travel Warning - 1 October 2008 |
|
|
Partial duplication from http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_930.html
"The Department of State continues to warn U.S. citizens against non-essential travel to Pakistan in light of the threat of terrorist activity.
"The presence of Al-Qaida, Taliban elements and indigenous sectarian groups poses a potential danger to American citizens, especially in the western border regions. Continuing tensions in the Middle East also increase the possibility of violence against Westerners in Pakistan. Terrorists and their sympathizers have demonstrated their willingness and capability to attack targets where Americans are known to congregate or visit, such as hotels, clubs and restaurants, places of worship, schools, or outdoor recreation events. U.S. Government personnel are not permitted to stay at or frequent major hotels in Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore and Peshawar. Government personnel also have been advised to restrict the number and frequency of trips to public markets, and to avoid public restaurants in Islamabad, Karachi, and Peshawar.
"Sectarian and extremist violence has resulted in fatal bomb attacks in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta, Lahore, and other Pakistani cities in 2006, 2007 and 2008. Since 2007, over 1,000 bombings have killed more than 1,000 people throughout Pakistan and injured many more. Some of the attacks have occurred outside major hotels, in market areas and other locations frequented by Americans. Other recent targets have included restaurants, Pakistani government officials and buildings, and international NGOs.
"U.S. citizens who travel to or remain in Pakistan despite this Travel Warning are encouraged to register with the Embassy in Islamabad or the Consulates in Karachi, Lahore, or Peshawar. This registration can be completed online through the Department of State’s travel registration Web site: https://travelregistration.state.gov/. Alternatively, Americans without Internet access should contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate for information on registering in person. Registration enables citizens to obtain updated information on travel and security within Pakistan via the emergency alert system (warden network)." |
|
III. Security Briefings |
|
New: Argentina (Capital: Buenos Aires) |
|
|
Farmers in Argentina, one of the world's top suppliers of wheat, corn, beef, and soybeans, will start a six-day strike on Friday to protest the government's agricultural policy, farm leaders announced Tuesday. "The government ignored our demands again. We cannot ignore the worsening situation for farmers due to rising costs linked to oil prices and the global financial crisis," said Hugo Biolcatti, one of the main farm leaders and head of the Argentine Rural Society. At a news conference that brought together the four largest farmer's organizations, Biolcatti also identified the country's ongoing drought, the worst in a century, according to government officials, as a cause for concern. The farm leaders said they are striking because the government has not addressed their demands for lower export taxes. A 128-day strike by thousands of farmers succeeded earlier this year when the Congress rejected a draft law promoted by President Cristina Kirchner to increase taxes on the export of soybeans and other grains and cereals. Farmers blocked roads during the dispute, but leaders ruled out similar actions for the latest strike. Kirchner's left-of-center government suffered politically at the hands of the farmer's victory, and as the bitter disagreement continues Kirchner's administration is unlikely to resist renewed calls for industrial action.
Universal Home Page ¦ Return to Top |
|
New: Philippines (Capital: Manila)
|
|
|
Fighting between Philippine troops and Muslim separatists erupted on Wednesday as the Islamic holy month of Ramadan came to an end, officials said. "The frequency of armed incidents between government troops and the lawless groups are increasing," with the rebels launching more attacks, said military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Ernesto Torres. He said that with the end of Ramadan, the military was also ending its restraint in using artillery and air strikes against guerrillas of the separatist Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in the southern Philippines. "We will revert back to the rules of engagement that we had before Ramadan," Torres said. In the town of Datu Saudi Ampatuan in the southern region of Mindanao on Wednesday, a group of journalists investigating a burning house came under fire from MILF gunmen. The journalists fled unharmed but their vehicle was hit by a bullet through one of its tires. Government troops in the area then returned fired at the rebels with rifles and mortars, the journalists said.
Universal Home Page ¦ Return to Top |
|
New: India (Capital: New Delhi)
|
|
|
A Hindu woman has been killed as police have tried to control more violence between Christians and Hindus in the eastern Indian state of Orissa. They say that the violence began in the state's Kandhamal district when a Hindu mob attacked a Christian priest.
Police say that the priest's son retaliated by firing on the crowd, leading to further clashes.
Orissa has seen weeks of anti-Christian violence. Correspondents say it is caused by ethnic and religious tension. More than 30 people have been killed in the violence and thousands forced to flee their homes and seek shelter in relief camps. The attacks have been blamed on radical Hindu groups. The latest clashes come a day after the European Union told India's prime minister that his government has failed to prevent "a massacre" of Christians in Orissa.
Universal Home Page ¦ Return to Top |
|
New: Indonesia (Capital: Jakarta)
|
|
|
Police found and detonated a suspected bomb hidden at a shopping area in Indonesia's fragile Central Sulawesi province, according to reports. The device, complete with wires, batteries and a mobile phone detonator, was found just after midnight in the provincial capital Palu, state news agency Antara reported. It could have been intended to cause bloodshed at the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, police commissioner Bonar Sitinjak said. "We're not indicating yet who the perpetrators are, but we will keep investigating based on information from the public,'' Sitinjak said. The Jakarta Post said children had found the device under a vendor's cart and had played with it for some time until adults realized its potential threat and called the police. Central Sulawesi, especially Palu, Poso, and its surrounding district, has seen occasional flare ups of unrest since violence between Muslims and Christians claimed around 1,000 lives in 2000 and 2001. A government-brokered peace deal went into effect in December 2001.
Universal Home Page ¦ Return to Top |
|
New: Mexico (Capital: Mexico City)
|
|
|
The bodies of 11 men and one woman, some with their tongues cut out, were found dumped in an empty lot next to a Tijuana elementary school Monday morning, an hour before children were scheduled to arrive. City officials suspended classes after finding the victims, most of who had been bound and tortured. Some were only partially clothed, said Baja California attorney general's office spokesman Jose Manuel Yepiz.
Baja California state attorney General Romel Moreno said seven of the victims had their tongues cut out. He said a plastic bag containing five human tongues was also found near the bodies. "We're in a war," Moreno told a news conference late Monday. "We're in a constant battle." Moreno said at least three of the victims were teen-agers. He said the federal attorney general's office has taken over the investigation. Yepiz said the 12 bodies were discovered next to a message written on a white piece of cardboard that read, "This is going to happen to all of those who are with 'The Engineer' for being blabbermouths."
Minutes after the grisly discovery, four other bodies were found in another empty lot in Tijuana, and two other bodies were discovered late Sunday in a lot next to a factory.
Investigators believe 16 of the victims were killed by warring drug gangs. The other two were victims of street crime, Yepiz said. He said police also found a message with the four bodies found in an empty lot in a residential area that read, "I'm not a traitor but I don't like to be in the company of cowards."
Universal Home Page ¦ Return to Top |
|
Weather Access Options |
|
|
Access weather 24/7 with a customized Web page from ImpactWeather. This service is cost-effective, convenient, and tailored specifically to your specific needs.
To learn more about all ImpactWeather services, call toll-free (877) 792-3220 or e-mail impact@universalweather.com. You may also find us online at impactweather.com.
Universal Home Page ¦ Return to Top |
|
This Week's Global Forecast |
|
|
TROPICAL
There are two tropical systems at this time. T.D. Higos is 300 miles southeast of Hainan Island moving towards the west at 15 knots with sustained winds of 30 knots. T.S. Marie is 1,000 miles east of Acapulco, Mexico moving towards the west at 07 knots with sustained winds of 40 knots.
VOLCANOES
Etna, Italy has an ash cloud from 12,000 to 10,000 feet moving toward the east at 15 knots. Chaiten, Chile has an ash cloud from 12,000 feet to the surface moving toward the southeast at 10 knots. Ubinas, Peru has an ash cloud from 20,000 feet to the surface moving toward the north at 10 knots.
NORTH AMERICA
A cold front moving through the Great Lakes region will produce rainshowers along with moderate low-level turbulence. Low pressure over western Canada will produce rain, snow and moderate low-level turbulence. A cold front pushing through the Pacific Northwest will produce rainshowers across the region.
ATLANTIC/EUROPE
Low pressure south of Greenland and its associated cold front will produce rain and moderate low-level turbulence. Another area of low pressure centered over the central North Atlantic will produce isolated thunderstorms. Additional thunderstorms are likely over the southwestern North Atlantic in association with a weak surface trough. Low pressure approaching the U.K. will produce rainshowers and moderate low-level turbulence. Low pressure over Scandinavia will produce rainshowers across the area. Additional thunderstorms are likely over Turkey in association with an area of low pressure. Patchy late night and early morning fog is likely across portions of central and southern Europe.
ASIA
A large storm system over western Russia will produce rain, freezing rain and snow along with moderate low-level turbulence. Another storm system over central Russia will produce rain, freezing rain and snow to the north and rainshowers farther south. Moderate low-level turbulence will also accompany this feature.
SE ASIA/PACIFIC
Isolated thunderstorms are likely over northeastern India, Indonesia, and southeastern China, especially during the afternoon and evening. Low pressure and its associated cold front will produce moderate low-level turbulence, but little in the way of rain, across northeastern China. Patchy morning fog is likely over portions of northeastern China. A frontal system stretching from west to east across the central North Pacific will produce rainshowers along with moderate low- level turbulence. Isolated thunderstorms will accompany this system over southern Japan. A strong jet core will produce moderate shear turbulence from northern Japan eastward.
SOUTH AMERICA
Thunderstorms are expected across mainly northern and west-central South America. Isolated thunderstorms are likely over southeastern Brazil in association with a cold front. Another cold front will produce showers and moderate low-level turbulence across extreme southern Argentina and Chile.
AFRICA
Clusters of thunderstorms will continue mainly over the central and western portion of the continent. Patchy morning fog is likely along portions of the Ivory Coast. A cold front will produce moderate low-level turbulence over the extreme southern portion of the continent.
AUSTRALIA/SOUTH PACIFIC
Patchy early morning fog is likely over portions of southeastern Australia. A cold front approaching southwestern Australia will produce rainshowers across the region.
Universal Home Page ¦ Return to Top |
|
|
|
