March 17 2014 News -

Following a Sunday vote, Crimea's parliament formally declared independence from Ukraine to join Russia, reporting a 96% majority in favor.

Reports confirmed that 16 people died in a stampede during a massive government job recruitment drive involving roughly 500,000 applicants. March 17 2014 News

President Barack Obama announced new sanctions targeting Russian and Ukrainian officials responsible for the "illegal referendum," stating the U.S. would not recognize the secession. would not recognize the secession

Major sponsors like Guinness and Heineken, as well as New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio , boycotted the NYC parade due to its exclusion of openly gay organizations. On March 17, 2014, the following major news events occurred:

Florida was named the top-seeded team for the 2014 NCAA basketball tournament as the brackets were officially set.

On March 17, 2014, the following major news events occurred: