The head of United Nations peacekeeping operations is calling on all parties in Syria to ensure the cessation of violence is observed, stressing that recent reports from observers on the ground show that much more needs to be done to maintain a ceasefire in the country.

“It is clearly for the parties to demonstrate the desire to cease all forms of armed violence,” said Under-Secretary-General Hervé Ladsous at a press briefing in New York. “More bombs, more weapons, more violence could only increase the tension and add to an already very considerable toll of human lives.”

US TRANSITION IN AFGHANISTAN. Combat Forces Leaving, While Attack kills seven in Capital.

CHEN GUANGCHEN IS OUT OF US EMBASSY. Blind Chinese Activist Did Not Seek Asylum.

IMMIGRATION REFORM. Threat To Illegal Immigrants Stronger Than Ever.

HAZING DEATH AT FLORIDA A&M. Five Will Be Charged Today.

NEWT'S GONE. Gingrich Says Goodbye and Adios Amigos.

May is Bike Month in NYC and it is the perfect time to take advantage of New York City's extensive system of cycling and walking trails, or you may wish to ride your bike around town, like we see Ms. Whitcombe doing. She is a very proud clam-digger and is about to become a local City Island businesswoman and entrepreneur. Digital image provided by mussel-sucker/photojournalist: Larry Christen